U.S. Military Aids Northeastern State in Battle Against ISIS: A Complex Alliance
BOSASO, Somalia – The rugged terrain of Somalia’s Al-Miskad Mountains echoes with the relentless pursuit of ISIS militants as the U.S. Africa Command intensifies its airstrikes alongside the Northeastern State Counter-Terrorism Forces. This marks another chapter in the sustained effort to dismantle ISIS from the Horn of Africa, where pockets of militant resistance persist.
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The Joint Efforts
It all began in December 2024 when U.S. Africa Command joined forces with Northeastern State troops to flush out militants hidden in caves scattered across the Bari region. Over the years, these mountainous hideouts had become strongholds for ISIS commanders. By February 2025, then-President Donald Trump confirmed that airstrikes had taken out senior ISIS figures.
“These lethal operations highlight our commitment to neutralizing threats before they reach American soil,” said Gen. Dagvin Anderson, Commander of U.S. Africa Command, emphasizing the broader implications of these targeted strikes.
Operation Insights
The recent two-week operation, concluded with precision strikes, was aimed at the heart of ISIS leadership domains nestled within the Al-Miskad Mountains. “We are seeing palpable results,” shared a senior Northeastern State officer, as local forces continue to reclaim territories once deemed impenetrable.
On the heels of these strikes, Northeastern State forces launched an operation in Maragale within the Baallade Valley, extending their reach deeper into ISIS territories. “Our resolve is uncompromising,” said a Northeastern State commander. “The militants are feeling the pressure, as we expand control over newly liberated areas.”
Regional Dynamics and Challenges
Despite significant victories, the path to stability is fraught with challenges. The Federal Government of Somalia, based in Mogadishu, has had a fraught relationship with the Northeastern State regional government in Garowe. This tension limits cohesive support for battles against extremism.
The U.S. Africa Command’s involvement underscores the collaborative effort necessary to combat terrorism in this geopolitically sensitive region. The Horn of Africa’s stability relies heavily on such international partnerships, with AUSSOM also playing a crucial role.
Global Relevance
This ongoing military assistance underscores a critical question: How does the global community effectively combat terrorism while fostering regional alliances in politically fragmented areas? The engagement in Northeastern State serves as a case study of military, diplomatic, and local governance intersecting to counter extremism. Yet, the balance of power and influence remains delicate.
Moreover, the alliance addresses a shared concern not just for Somalia but for global security. The coalition’s success—or failure—holds implications beyond the immediate borders. With globalization, the tentacles of extremism can easily stretch towards vulnerable parts of the world, making international cooperation all the more vital.
The Human Element
Amid these military operations, the human impact resonates deeply. Local communities, caught in the crossfire, struggle to piece together lives amidst uncertainty. The rebirth of hope in liberated villages contrasts starkly with the haunting memories of conflict.
A resident of a newly liberated village shared, “We long for peace and the chance to rebuild without fear.” This sentiment reflects the aspirations of countless others yearning for stability.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing combat efforts paint a broader picture of the challenges faced by regions fighting terrorism. As the global community weighs its role in these interventions, consideration of long-term strategies beyond military action becomes essential. Investments in economic development, education, and governance are integral to sustainable peace.
As efforts continue, one crucial query lingers: Can the combination of international aid, local governance, and military precision truly root out extremism, or will underlying political rifts continue to undermine progress in Northeastern State and beyond?
The answer may guide not only the future of Somalia but also the international community’s broader approach to combating global extremism.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
