Puntland Forces Deal Major Blow to Islamic State in Somalia Offensive

Puntland's military has reportedly killed 85 Islamic State (IS) fighters and seized 50 bases during an ongoing offensive aimed at combating the terrorist group's growing presence in Somalia. The operation, known as the "Hilac Campaign," has been underway for several weeks following extensive preparations by Puntland forces. According to officials and Reuters, the campaign was initiated after a series of US airstrikes targeted IS factions in the region. Puntland commanders claim that over 150 militants have been killed since the campaign began, signifying a significant blow to IS, which has strengthened its foothold in parts of Somalia. The Puntland administration seeks to enhance international support for its operations against the IS, anticipating that these military successes may attract more aid and resources. The central government's goal is to stabilize the region amid increasing threats from militant groups. The progress made by Puntland forces marks a crucial development in the fight against terrorism in the Horn of Africa, with efforts ongoing to eliminate IS's influence.

The United States launched airstrikes in Somalia aimed at targeting militant groups, an action reportedly ordered by former President Donald Trump. The strikes are intended to disrupt operations of Al-Shabaab, an affiliate of Al-Qaeda that has been active in the region. According to military officials, the operation successfully targeted key positions held by the group, contributing to ongoing efforts to stabilize the area and support the Somali government. The U.S. has maintained a military presence in the Horn of Africa to combat extremism, frequently conducting drone strikes to eliminate threats. The airstrikes follow a period of heightened violence in Somalia, where Al-Shabaab continues to carry out attacks against government facilities and civilians. In response to the increasing threat, the U.S. has reiterated its commitment to work alongside Somali forces to enhance security and assist in the fight against terrorism. While the details of the strikes remain classified, officials emphasized that the operation was conducted with the utmost consideration for civilian safety.

The U.S. military has executed airstrikes targeting Islamic State (IS) operatives in Somalia, marking the first such operations under President Donald Trump's second term, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The strikes, coordinated with the Somali government, aimed to eliminate multiple IS operatives, with initial Pentagon assessments indicating no civilian casualties occurred. Trump, in a social media post, claimed the strikes were directed at a senior IS planner and noted the destruction of IS hideouts. He emphasized a renewed commitment to counterterrorism, boasting, “We WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!” The attack follows a recent rise in IS activity in Somalia, where they have been linked to kidnappings and extortion efforts. Reports from the International Crisis Group estimate that hundreds of IS militants remain active in Somalia, particularly in the Puntland region, despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts from U.S. forces and Somali security. The airstrikes are part of a broader strategy to suppress terrorism in the region, which has seen increased collaboration among various terror factions since their emergence in 2015.