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In a decisive counter-terrorism operation, US fighter jets conducted airstrikes on ISIS-affiliated militants entrenched in Puntland’s Bari region, northeastern Somalia. The strikes, carried out overnight on March 25, 2025, targeted key positions in the Mirali Valley, a remote area known for harboring extremist groups. Puntland authorities confirmed that the operation inflicted heavy casualties on the militants, marking a significant step in the ongoing fight against ISIS in the region.
The airstrikes were part of a joint effort between the United States and Somali security forces to dismantle ISIS’s growing presence in Puntland. According to a statement from the Puntland administration, the strikes targeted limited sites where ISIS elements were gathering, achieving their intended military objectives. Somali officials emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism, with the Federal Government of Somalia expressing gratitude for the US’s support in eliminating militant threats.
The Mirali Valley, located within the rugged Al Miskaad mountain range, has long served as a strategic stronghold for ISIS militants. The group has exploited the region’s difficult terrain to evade security forces and establish a base for operations. Puntland Defense Forces have been engaged in a series of military campaigns to reclaim territory from ISIS, but the group’s resilience has posed ongoing challenges.
The airstrikes come amid heightened concerns over ISIS’s activities in Somalia. While the group’s presence is smaller compared to Al-Shabaab, its ability to launch coordinated attacks and recruit foreign fighters has raised alarm among regional and international stakeholders. Puntland officials have reported an increase in foreign militants joining ISIS ranks, further complicating efforts to neutralize the group.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the operation as a critical step in weakening ISIS’s capabilities in Somalia. “Our initial assessment indicates that multiple operatives were killed in the airstrikes, and no civilians were harmed. These strikes reinforce our commitment to supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism,” Hegseth stated. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud echoed these sentiments, expressing his deepest gratitude to Washington for its role in the operation.
The airstrikes are part of a broader campaign to address the security challenges posed by ISIS in Puntland. The group has been responsible for a series of attacks in the region, including a recent assault on Puntland Defense Forces that resulted in casualties. Puntland authorities have launched several operations targeting ISIS strongholds, but the group’s ability to regroup and launch attacks underscores the need for sustained efforts.
The international community has welcomed the airstrikes, with organizations such as the United Nations and African Union pledging support for Somalia’s counter-terrorism initiatives. Analysts have emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of extremism, including poverty, unemployment, and political instability, to prevent the resurgence of militant groups.
Despite the success of the operation, challenges remain. The rugged terrain of Puntland’s Bari region continues to provide a safe haven for ISIS militants, making it difficult for security forces to maintain control. Additionally, the presence of foreign fighters in ISIS-controlled areas poses a growing threat to regional stability.
As Somalia navigates these complexities, the focus remains on strengthening its security forces and fostering international collaboration to combat terrorism. The airstrikes in Puntland serve as a reminder of the persistent challenges in the fight against extremism and the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure peace and stability.