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AFRICOM and the Sahel Crisis: A Global Concern On May 30, 2025, during a pivotal digital press briefing at the African Chiefs of Defense Conference, U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley, who heads U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), painted a stark picture of the current security landscape. He labeled the Sahel as the “epicenter of terrorism on the globe,” a declaration that resonates deeply given the escalating crises in this region. The Sahel, a vast belt of land stretching across Africa from the…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a dramatic Friday night, the Somali government, in collaboration with international allies, orchestrated an airstrike aimed directly at Al-Shabaab militants nestled in the Basra region. Awarded for its strategic positioning between Balcad and Afgooye, this landscape plays a pivotal role in the ongoing military endeavors against insurgent forces. Witnesses on the ground reported hearing a series of thunderous explosions that resonated through the night, reverberating as far as local neighborhoods. These…

Military Operations in Somalia: A New Offensive Against Al-Shabaab Mogadishu (AX) – The Somali National Army (SNA) is gearing up for an ambitious military offensive, partnering with the Ma’awisley clan militia, to reclaim the strategically significant district of Aden Yabaal in the Middle Shabelle region. Currently held by Al-Shabaab, a notorious terrorist organization connected to Al-Qaeda, this district has been a focal point for militant activity. As military sources have reported, there is a palpable increase in…

The European Commission has announced that President Ursula von der Leyen and former US President Donald Trump have decided to expedite trade negotiations and maintain frequent communication following a constructive phone conversation last night. In a positive turn of events, Trump mentioned he would suspend his proposed 50% tariffs on the European Union until July 9, describing the call with von der Leyen as "very nice." Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho addressed the media stating, "While we won’t get into the…

Somalia's Opposition Leaders Begin Talks in Mogadishu – What’s on the Horizon? MOGADISHU — In a city teeming with historical nuances and contemporary challenges, a cohort of Somali opposition politicians has initiated a pivotal political meeting. Sources confirmed this with Axadle Times, highlighting the significance of these closed-door discussions that commenced on Friday. Slated to unfold over three intensive days, the primary focus is a critical examination of the nation’s electoral process and the larger,…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a warm Thursday afternoon, the bustling atmosphere of Adden Adde International Airport was tinged with anticipation as two prominent figures in Somali politics, former Prime Ministers Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and Hassan Ali Khaire, touched down in Mogadishu. Their arrival is not just a mere homecoming; it's a signal of increasing political activity within the capital, as they prepare for an important opposition conference set to unfold in the coming days. The reception was marked by the presence of…

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…

Somalia's Leadership Struggles: A Fragmented Nation Yearning for Unity MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a nation where hope seems perpetually on the horizon, yet just out of reach, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stands at the crossroads, facing the challenge of uniting Somalia's federal leaders. Recently, his efforts to gather all participants of the National Consultative Council (NCC) in Mogadishu have fallen short, highlighting deepening fissures within the fragile country. The initial talks, scheduled for May 2, 2025, and…

A Look into the 2019 Kidnapping Incident in Queen Elizabeth National Park On a seemingly calm evening—April 2, 2019—a shocking incident unfolded on the Edward Track, situated between Katoke Gate and Wilderness Camp in Uganda’s breathtaking Queen Elizabeth National Park. This tranquil scene became the backdrop for an unsettling kidnapping as two individuals, Endicott and Remezo, were taken hostage. The kidnappers, brazen in their actions, demanded a ransom of $500,000 for their release. What does this…

FC Barcelona's Thrilling Encounter: A Night of Surprises and Strategy In a night laden with suspense and sheer determination, FC Barcelona emerged victorious from a challenging away game against the already relegated Valladolid. This win not only fortified their position atop La Liga, extending their lead over arch-rivals Real Madrid to a commendable seven points, but also set the stage for an exhilarating weekend in Spanish football. With Madrid gearing up to face Celta Vigo, the stakes were undoubtedly high.…