Somali

FILE - Somali National Army soldiers stand vigilant against the notorious al-Shabab militants in the Middle Shabelle region of Somalia on Dec. 10, 2012. Fast forward to Feb. 20, 2025, when Somali authorities reported a significant victory. The sobering reality of more than 100 al-Shabab militants losing their lives in the conflict serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle. In a decisive show of resilience, Somali National Army troops thwarted assaults on four strategically crucial military bases on Thursday. The…

In the often tumultuous sphere of global security, how do nations prepare for challenges that seem as ceaseless as the tides? Mogadishu, a city at the heart of such inquiries, recently witnessed an intriguing chapter in its journey of resilience and preparation. Here, among the echoes of both hope and conflict, stands an event worth pondering. The U.S. Army paratroopers have taken stride amidst Somali Danab special forces, together engaging in an exercise dubbed Justified Accord 2025 (JA25). Imagine, if you will, the…

In the tumultuous landscapes of northeastern Somalia lies a story unfolding across ridges and political corridors, where Northeastern State authorities have long pinpointed a perceived apathy from the federal government in the contentious war against ISIS. Within the rugged peaks of the Cal Miskaad mountains in the Bari region, these militants have found refuge, launching audacious attacks against both the valiant Northeastern State security forces and the innocent communities nestled within. Exasperation among Somali…

Mogadishu (AX) — It appears that the resilient and determined forces of Somalia, coupled with the valorous local militias, have once again made strides forward. On Friday, an intriguing ripple spread through the Middle Shabelle region as they reclaimed the pivotal towns of El Baraf and Miirtaqwa. These areas had fallen into the clutch of the Al-Shabaab militants, albeit fleetingly. Was this maneuver by Al-Shabaab a sign of desperation? Perhaps. The tides turned rapidly, and the towns now resound with a newfound hope,…

Mogadishu (AX) — At the crack of dawn, the stillness of El Baraf was shattered. You could feel the tension in the air, palpable and unnerving. Just days ago, the town fell into tumult when Al-Shabaab launched an overwhelming assault on the Somali National Army (SNA) and local militias. This was not just another battle. It was a turning point in a theater of conflict that many have come to accept as the norm. The Somali government, recognizing the gravity of the situation, has crafted a decisive response. Troops aren't…

Dhusamareb (AX) – In the moonlit tranquillity of a Thursday night, the Somali army, in concert with vigilant local clan militias, set the stage for a deliberate military operation in Dabagalo—a haven nestled within the Harardhere district of the Mudug region. Their mission? To dismantle an Al-Shabaab stronghold that, until then, had been an insidious blight on the community's path. Six militants met their fate, taken down as if they were extensions of the very shadows they sought to exploit. What makes a group of people…

Mogadishu (AX) – The tapestry of diplomatic relations often weaves itself in unexpected patterns. Recently, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi found himself at the center of a swirling storm of speculation, dismissing allegations that the federal government barred former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Rooble from securing diplomatic passport clearance for a journey to South Africa. During a candid discourse with VOA Somalia, Minister Fiqi painted a picture of respect and regard for Rooble, highlighting…

Mogadishu (AX) – On Thursday, the Somali government stepped into the spotlight, addressing its vigilant watch over the legal and humanitarian status of Somali nationals imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. This move comes on the heels of a fervent protest in Mogadishu, where families of detainees facing execution spilled their worries onto the streets. Their cries echo: will justice have an ear? The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, echoing a chorus of duty and humanity, pledged allegiance to the cause of these…

“What is politics but the art of pulling wool over the eyes of the people?” mused a seasoned diplomat over coffee once. With these words echoing in my mind, let me delve into a story that adds another layer to the intricate tapestry known as Somali politics. On a balmy Thursday, the air was heavy with anticipation at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The reason? The unexpected arrival of Mohamed Hussein Roble, a man who once steered Somalia from the turbulent raft as its Prime Minister. This, however, was…

Somali Army Repels Al-Shabaab Attack, Kills 130 in Middle Shabelle Region Report By Ali MusaAxadle Times International – Monitoring MOGADISHU, Somalia – In the dim light of dawn, a clash unfolded between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the relentless Al-Shabaab insurgents. What occurred this Thursday was not a mere confrontation but a detailed chapter in the ongoing saga of resilience and sovereignty. Officials confirmed the attack was thwarted by…