Somalia

Mogadishu (AX) — On Thursday, a significant escalation in hostilities erupted between North Western State of Somalia forces and SSC-Khaatumo troops in the Daanweyne area of the Sanaag region, further intensifying a conflict rooted in a complex land dispute that has plagued both parties for years. The tremors of this clash are felt not only in the immediate vicinity of the fighting but resonate throughout the greater landscape of Somali politics, drawing in international observers and fueling the deeper, historical skirmishes…

Somali Journalist's Courage Recognized on World Stage By: Ali Musa, Axadle Times International – Monitoring 17 April 2025 On a bright day in Mogadishu, the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is beaming with pride. It's the announcement of the finalists for one of the most illustrious awards recognizing valiant acts in the global fight against corruption and human rights violation—the 2025 Allard Prize for International Integrity. Isn't it grand…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a deeply concerning turn of events, Al-Shabaab militants have successfully seized control of the strategic town of Aadan Yabaal, located in the Middle Shabelle region of Somalia. This takeover followed a dawn assault that involved alarming explosions and hours of intense combat, according to local sources relayed by AX. The assault, which commenced early on Wednesday morning, spanned more than five grueling hours and featured the deployment of heavy weaponry from both Al-Shabaab and Somali…

U.S. Military Responds to Al-Shabaab Takeover MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the ever-evolving landscape of international conflict, the unexpected capture of the Adan Yabaal town by Al-Shabaab militants has provoked a decisive response from the U.S. Africa Command. On Wednesday, during torrential rains that swept across the region, the Somali National Army (SNA) found itself outmaneuvered—losing grip on this strategically significant town. The rains posed a challenge for aerial surveillance, creating an unintended shield…

Breaking News: Ground Forces Successfully Engage Al-Shabaab in Baidoa Mogadishu (AX) — In a bold and determined effort to curb the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab, Somali government forces, along with regional Darwish units from the South West State, effectively neutralized more than 35 militants in a carefully coordinated military operation near Baidoa. This decisive action was confirmed by military officials on Thursday. The operation was strategically centered on Baay Burjeed, a rural locality situated…

Strategic Villages in Somalia: A Complex Tapestry of Challenges MOGADISHU, Somalia - Picture this: the early morning mist still clings to Mogadishu’s skyline. Last Wednesday, a sense of urgency permeated the air as reports emerged that Somali National Army (SNA) troops had withdrawn from the village of Aboorey—one that bore witness to relentless clashes with the notorious al-Shabaab militants. This unfolding drama isn’t isolated; it reflects the delicate balance of power in this fractured region. In tandem with this, a…

North Western State of Somalia Urges Immediate Transfer of Detainees from Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — In a move that has captured international attention, the North Western State of Somalia government has urgently requested the Somali federal authorities to transfer 25 detainees, taken from Las Anod, to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This request comes amidst accusations that the federal government is violating international humanitarian law and leveraging the detainees for political gain.…

The Ongoing Struggle: Reflections on Somalia’s Battle Against Al-Shabaab In a recent televised address, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud articulated a poignant truth about the nature of conflict: “What we’re witnessing is the nature of war—momentum shifts.” It’s a reminder that, in the face of adversity, resilience is the cornerstone of success. The Somali National Army, alongside community forces known as the Ma’awisleey, has made significant strides over the past two years, yet the recent seizure of Aadan Yabaal by…

U.S. Airstrike Targets Al-Shabaab: A Stride Towards Stability in Somalia Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development in the ongoing battle against extremism in Somalia, a recent U.S. airstrike, executed in collaboration with the Somali National Army (SNA), successfully dismantled two vessels believed to be transporting advanced weaponry for Al-Shabaab. This operation was confirmed by officials from both Somalia and the United States on Thursday. The airstrike, which has garnered attention for its precision,…

Somali Forces Successfully Repel Al-Shabaab Attack in Gasarta Mogadishu (AX) — In a striking demonstration of resolve, Somali government forces, alongside local militias, thwarted an attempted attack by the militant group Al-Shabaab in the Gasarta area, a crucial route linking Baidoa and Deynuunay. This encounter unfolded on Wednesday, resulting in the death of at least ten militants, as reported by military officials. An official from the Somali National Army (SNA) stated, "The Khawarij terrorists tried to carry out an…