Somalia

Heavy Clashes Erupt Between Al-Shabaab Militants and Ma’awisley Fighters in Hiiraan Beledweyne (AX) — In the early hours of Tuesday morning, intense fighting broke out in the Hiiraan region of Somalia. The scene of this violent confrontation was near the rural settlement of El Hareeri, where Al-Shabaab militants clashed with Ma’awisley fighters from the Hawaadle clan. This engagement represents a crucial chapter in a broader militia-led initiative aimed at dislodging the notorious insurgent group from…

Somali Army Embarks on Major Offensive in Central Regions MOGADISHU, Somalia - The gentle hum of the city masks the underlying tensions, where in the midst of persistent challenges, the Somali National Army (SNA) has decisively initiated a significant offensive against militant groups. These operations, pivotal in nature, aim to reclaim pivotal areas from insurgents in central Somalia. Joining forces with regional allies, the SNA has targeted Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions,…

The Complex Political Dynamics in Somalia: Allegations, Aspirations, and the Role of Youth MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the ever-turbulent landscape of Somali politics, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has recently stirred the pot, accusing the opposition of being puppets of foreign powers. Fascinatingly, though, these claims lack the backing of concrete evidence. The political scene remains charged as opposition factions vehemently criticize President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing him of autocracy and…

Garowe (AX) — In a recent high-level meeting held in Garowe, the United Nations took a significant step by urging the Northeastern State authorities to prioritize human rights protections amid ongoing security operations targeting the Islamic State-linked militant group in northeastern Somalia. This plea underscores the delicate balance between ensuring safety and maintaining the dignity of individual rights in a region grappling with ongoing turmoil. The gathering featured prominent figures, notably Northeastern State's…

Garowe (AX) – In a significant development in the ongoing battle against extremism, Northeastern State security forces recently achieved a crucial victory by eliminating Ahmed Muse Sidi, a high-ranking leader of the Islamic State (ISIS). This operation took place in the Togga Miiraale area of the Bari region, as confirmed by local officials on Tuesday. Abdifitax Mohamed Nur, the Minister of State for the Presidency of Northeastern State, elaborated on the impact of this decisive action during an interview with BBC Somali.…

Somalia: Mortar Attack Targets Mogadishu International Airport – Residents MOGADISHU, Somalia – Bright and early on a Tuesday morning, the peace of the capital city was broken. Residents near the Aden Adde International Airport were jolted from their routines by the echoing booms of at least five mortar rounds. This incident has once again stirred up conversations about the security of this crucial part of Mogadishu. Imagine starting your day hearing loud explosions. It's a reality for those living near the airport. The…

Equality Now's Urgent Call for Action Across Africa Nairobi, Kenya (AXADLE) – Addressing an escalating crisis, Equality Now is appealing to the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights. They’re urging member states of the African Union (AU) to take immediate steps to tackle the surge in sexual violence and exploitation impacting women and girls across the continent. During the 83rd Ordinary Session of the Commission this month, this dedicated human rights organization emphasized the need for governments…

**Beledweyne (AX)** – In a remarkable development, Abdi Dahir Guure Karoore, the Minister of Interior of Hirshabelle State, has made a bold announcement: the Somali National Army (SNA) and local defense fighters have encircled the strategic town of Aden Yabaal in the Middle Shabelle region and are gearing up for an imminent entrance into this pivotal location. Just days ago, Aden Yabaal was under the control of the notorious Al-Shabaab, a group that has long plagued Somalia with its violent insurgency. However, the tide is…

Mogadishu's Web of Deception: Unmasking a National Scandal In the vibrant yet tumultuous heart of Mogadishu, Somalia's Minister of Labour, Yusuf Mohamed Aden, finds himself at the center of a storm. A recent investigation has unearthed a human trafficking network deeply entwined within government layers, exploiting international channels to funnel individuals into Europe. How did we get here? "Truth is the daughter of time, not of authority." – Francis Bacon On an otherwise mundane Thursday, startling…

Somalia: Northeastern State Announces Death of Senior ISIS Facilitator in Cal-Miskaad Mountains Garowe, Somalia – May 20, 2025 – In the picturesque yet perilous expanse of the Cal-Miskaad mountains, a chapter came to a close for the region's ongoing battle against terror. Ahmed Muse Said, a prominent ISIS facilitator, met his end during a meticulously orchestrated operation by Northeastern State's security forces. This mission marked a pivotal moment in Northeastern State’s unyielding fight…