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In a coordinated counterterrorism operation, the Somali government and the United States military successfully eliminated 10 al-Shabab militants in southern Somalia. The Somali Ministry of Information confirmed the operation, which took place in Beer Xaani, approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Kismayo.
Details of the Operation
The Somali government’s statement revealed that the mission targeted a group of al-Shabab fighters who were planning an imminent attack. Somali authorities referred to the militants as Khawaarij, a term used to describe extremists who deviate from mainstream Islamic teachings.
The statement clarified that no civilians were harmed during the offensive, emphasizing that the operation involved U.S. airstrikes in support of Somali ground forces. However, the exact date of the operation was not specified in the initial statement released on Sunday.
US Confirms Senior al-Shabab Leader Killed
The U.S. military’s Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed on Monday that senior al-Shabab figure Mohamed Mire, also known as Abu Abdirahman, was killed in an airstrike on December 24, 2024, near the town of Kunyo Barrow in the Lower Shabelle region.
Mire, a long-serving member of al-Shabab for over 15 years, was responsible for the group’s regional governance and held positions such as the group’s interior minister. AFRICOM highlighted that Mire played a significant role in al-Shabab’s strategic operations and decision-making processes.
AFRICOM Commander General Michael Langley stated, “The command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate. America remains steadfast in countering the evolving threats of terrorism.”
No Civilian Casualties Reported
Both Somali and U.S. officials have confirmed that no civilian casualties resulted from the strike, emphasizing the precision and careful planning of the mission. General Langley reiterated AFRICOM’s commitment to minimizing collateral damage while targeting key terrorist figures.
Al-Shabab’s Ongoing Threat in Somalia
Al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-linked terrorist organization, has been waging an insurgency against the Somali government for over 15 years. The group controls vast territories in southern and central Somalia and frequently targets both civilians and security forces.
The group has carried out numerous high-profile attacks, including bombings and assassinations targeting government officials, public spaces, and foreign military bases. Al-Shabab remains a primary threat to regional stability in the Horn of Africa, often using remote areas to train and coordinate operations.
International Support for Somalia’s Counterterrorism Efforts
The U.S. has been actively supporting Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts through targeted airstrikes and military cooperation under AFRICOM. This collaboration aims to dismantle al-Shabab’s operational capabilities and disrupt leadership structures.
The Somali government has also received support from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and other international partners working to stabilize the country and prevent extremist groups from regaining control.
Strategic Importance of the Kismayo Region
The recent operation in Beer Xaani highlights the strategic importance of the Kismayo region, a former al-Shabab stronghold. Kismayo was recaptured from al-Shabab forces in 2012 with the help of Kenyan Defense Forces and Somali troops, significantly weakening the group’s influence.
However, the region remains vulnerable to extremist activity, making continued military operations critical to securing the area and preventing further terrorist attacks.
Conclusion
The successful joint operation between Somali and U.S. forces, resulting in the elimination of 10 al-Shabab militants, underscores the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the Horn of Africa. The death of senior al-Shabab figure Mohamed Mire marks a significant blow to the group’s leadership, further weakening its ability to coordinate attacks.
Both the Somali government and its international partners remain committed to eliminating the threat posed by al-Shabab while prioritizing civilian safety.