The ever-ongoing battle against terrorism took a significant turn in southern Somalia as US forces joined hands with the Somali army to take down ten members of the al-Shabab terrorist group. This joint operation was confirmed by US African Command (Africom), who also disclosed the recent demise of a senior militant figure, Mohamed Mire, in the tumultuous Jubaland region. Working closely together, these teams struck a heavy blow to those who perpetuate violence and chaos in the region.
It was in the small hamlet of Beer Xaani, roughly 35 kilometers northwest of Kismayo, that ten al-Shabab fighters met their end during a forceful airstrike, as requested by the Somali government. Africom announced this news on a cold Tuesday evening, casting light on their unwavering resolve to curb terrorism wherever it festers. Though often hidden in the vastness of Somalia’s rugged landscape, these incidents reveal the relentless initiatives taken by global forces to squash extremist ideologies.
“At Somalia’s behest, US Africa Command executed a counterattack airstrike against al-Shabaab on Dec. 31, 2024,” stated a spokesperson from Africom, emphasizing the collaboration between the nations. Beyond just strategic airstrikes, US troops supplemented Somali forces by swiftly evacuating troops from combat areas where they were met with terrorist resistance, showcasing the camaraderie and trust built between the nations amidst adversity.
Backtracking slightly, we’re reminded of a prior operation. Africom had previously confirmed that Mohamed Mire, otherwise known in these circles as Abu Abdirahman, met his fate in another well-planned airstrike on Dec. 24. Mire had long been a thorn in the side of stability in Somalia, governing al-Shabaab’s destructive ventures across the region for 15 cantankerous years.
US Africa Command, in sync with Somalia’s government, orchestrated a pinpointed airstrike about 10 kilometers southwest of Quyno Barrow, successfully eliminating Mire. This decisive move nullified a potent threat, as recognized by the US Department of State, which had labeled Mire a global terrorist in 2022. His downfall marks a significant milestone in counter-terrorism efforts.
“Our national security strategy steadfastly tackles emerging terror threats,” proclaimed Gen. Michael Langley, the commander of Africom, summing up the purpose and driving force behind these actions. He went on to cite last year’s Global Terrorism Index, which painted a stark picture of the ongoing, global menace posed by al-Shabaab and similar factions. “Partnership with nations sharing our vision is crucial in combating these and other nefarious actors,” Langley added. This unity fosters regional security, ensuring stability and prosperity amidst the tumult.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
