The United States military played a key role in a recent battle in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, assisting the Somali government in eliminating a significant number of Al-Shabaab militants who were retreating from combat.
According to a press release from Somalia’s Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the Federal Government of Somalia, in collaboration with the U.S. military’s Africa Command (AFRICOM), launched a targeted airstrike against fleeing Al-Shabaab fighters who had suffered heavy losses in the clashes.
“The Somali National Army, working alongside U.S. AFRICOM, carried out a precision airstrike that severely weakened the terrorist enemy, crushing their failed assault on the town of Alkowsar in Middle Shabelle, part of the Hirshabelle state,” the statement read.
The airstrike specifically targeted remnants of the militant group, including key commanders, who had been routed in battle by the Somali National Army and local militia forces, commonly known as Maawiisley.
The Ministry of Information confirmed that assessments of Al-Shabaab’s losses are still ongoing, with initial reports indicating substantial casualties among the militant ranks.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Somali Federal Government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, emphasizing the continued partnership with international allies such as U.S. AFRICOM in the fight against Al-Shabaab and other threats to national and global security.
