U.S. Military Targets ISIS Militants in Somalia’s Northeastern State

BOSASO, Somalia – In a decisive move emblematic of ongoing collective responsibilities, the U.S. Africa Command recently executed an airstrike against ISIS militants in northern Somalia. This area, particularly the eastern Bari region of Northeastern State, has been under significant pressure as efforts to restore order intensify.

Since December 2024, a collaborative force comprising the Northeastern State Defense Forces, local fighters, U.S. Africa Command, and the United Arab Emirates has relentlessly pursued remnants of ISIS from strategic hideouts in the Cal-Miskaad mountains. Have you ever wondered about the enormity of such endeavors? These mountain caves, once brimming with militant activity, now stand as silent witnesses to the fierce initiatives that led to the liberation of several key strategic points.

The Cal-Miskaad mountains—a natural fortress used for planning and executing insurgent attacks—have seen a transformation in the past seven months. According to recent accounts, many militants have been neutralized or captured as military forces made significant headway in this rugged terrain.

In a detailed report, Somali officials shared insights about a recent U.S. airstrike conducted on July 7 in the Baallade Valley, southeast of Bosaso. This strategic offensive targeted ISIS elements within this commercial hub of Northeastern State, signifying a critical step in ongoing operations.

Considering Baallade Valley’s importance, the persistent efforts to reclaim these zones highlight a broader push against ISIS’s eroding hold in northern Somalia. Brigadier General Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh remarked, “A successful precision airstrike conducted tonight at Al-Miskaad’s Baallade Valley, executed by U.S. Africa Command with continual vital assistance, achieved its objective.”

He continued, “This partnership is consistently delivering demonstrable outcomes, particularly in the elimination of high-value targets. It plays a pivotal role in these final stages of Operation Hilaac, aimed at uprooting Daesh from its entrenched positions.”

Northeastern State’s unwavering resolve shines through as the northeastern Somali state pledges to continue these operations until all militants are eliminated. Now in its seventh month, this operation underscores Northeastern State’s standing as one of Somalia’s most secure and forward-looking states.

Interestingly, American President Donald Trump publicly announced a U.S. airstrike against IS-Somalia militants back in February 2025. This rare gesture of unity and direct communication highlighted the death of a senior ISIS leader. President Trump renewed his commitment to aiding Somali forces in their quest for peace, stability, and self-reliance.

As we reflect on these developments, one might ask: what drives these nations and peoples toward solidarity in fighting a common enemy? The answers may be rooted in shared aspirations for a safer and more stable world.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring