Somali

February opened with a flurry of activity for the U.S. Africa Command, commonly known as AFRICOM. Their mission was clear: address the escalating threat posed by extremist factions in Africa. The inaugural day of the month marked a significant move as AFRICOM executed airstrikes in Somalia’s remote Golis Mountains. Those strikes honed in on a local faction of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). The operation culminated in the elimination of Ahmed Maeleninine—an ISIS recruiter of note, renowned for his pivotal role…

Reflections on Security Challenges in Somalia In the heart of Mogadishu, amidst the bustling streets, a tragic reminder of Somalia’s ongoing security struggles unfolded with the attack on the Cairo Hotel. This violence isn't isolated, but rather, it reverberates like a chilling echo through the corridors of numerous Somali cities. How did we find ourselves here, surrounded by the seemingly ceaseless turmoil? Himilo Qaran, a voice distinct and unwavering in the political landscape, argues that…

Armed local fighters, alongside Somali security forces, patrol a rural area near the Ceelbuur district in the Galgaduud region on March 13, 2025. Mogadishu — Axadle Times International In a resolute move against adversity, local security forces have executed a concerted assault on a notorious Al-Shabaab stronghold in the serene, yet troubled, realms of Biyo Cadle near El Buur district. The normally quiet air, often filled with sounds of daily rural life, was pierced by the determined footsteps…

Somali Army's Triumph: A Step Forward in Combating Al-Shabaab MOGADISHU, Somalia - Witnessing the tenacity and resilience of the Somali National Army (SNA) often leaves one pondering the quiet fortitude that fuels their mission. Just recently, another chapter unfolded in this ongoing battle, a story of tactical achievement beating strongly within the heart of Somalia's daunting landscape. According to military officials, a decisive strike was carried out against the notorious Al-Shabaab fighters, resulting in the…

Political Tensions Rise: A Call for Evidence and Accountability In the ever-evolving landscape of Somali politics, raising voices and discord are not uncommon. Among them stands MP Abdirashid Jilley, a figure known for his outspoken criticism of the current government. Recently, he has emerged as a vocal advocate for transparency, especially in light of some eyebrow-raising comments made by a deputy minister. Imagine the astonishment when accusations surfaced suggesting that certain MPs were sympathizing with…

In the early morning haze of March 13, 2025, armed local fighters steadfastly tread alongside Somali security forces. They navigate the undulating landscape of the rural expanse near Ceelbuur district, nestled within the Galgaduud region. The mission? To secure their homeland—a goal that resonates with the heartbeats of many in the community. Mogadishu (AX)—Amid the cool evening air of Thursday, local security forces orchestrated a strategic move against adversity, targeting a notorious stronghold of Al-Shabaab nestled in…

Somalia's Call for Peace and Dialogue in South Sudan Mogadishu (AX) – With the hum of technology bridging nations, the virtual realm played host to the 43rd Extraordinary Assembly of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), convened to address a crisis that sees no borders—the ongoing security and political turmoil in South Sudan. On Wednesday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud turned the spotlight towards peace, once more affirming Somalia's unyielding dedication to regional tranquility. In this…

A Siege Broken: A Story of Courage and Resilience in Beledweyne In the early hours of a seemingly ordinary Tuesday morning, Hotel Cairo in Beledweyne became the scene of a dramatic 15-hour siege. The tranquility of the morning was shattered by a thunderous car bomb explosion, announced by the notorious Al-Shabaab militants. A total of seven unfortunate souls, comprising traditional elders, military officers, and civilian bystanders, were swept away in this storm of brutality. Those who survived sustained injuries—wounds…

Somalian Struggles Against Terrorism: A Chronicle of Hope and Resilience Alasow remarked on the grueling night's operations as government soldiers, supported by African Union forces, heroically navigated through a tense and dangerous situation. They worked tirelessly to rescue individuals trapped within the confines of a besieged hotel, including elders, military personnel, and innocent civilians. With a mixture of pride and sorrow, he disclosed, “During the 18-hour siege, our courageous soldiers eliminated two…

Beledweyne Siege Costs Lives Amidst Somali Struggle In the heart of Somalia's Hiran region resides the city of Beledweyne, a place marked by both its picturesque landscapes and, alas, the scars of conflict. Wednesday saw Somali security forces ending a harrowing 24-hour siege on a revered city hotel, leaving behind a somber tale of loss and resilience. The ordeal began much like a thunderclap on a serene day. As dusk settled in, a car bomb ripped through the Cairo Hotel on Tuesday—a site known…