In a significant blow to the al-Shabab extremist group, a joint airstrike conducted by Somali and U.S. forces resulted in the elimination of five militants in central Somalia.
The operation took place in a remote area near Cali Heele, situated in the Galgaduud region. Both Somalia and the United States confirmed the success of the strike on Thursday.
The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) issued a statement detailing the operation. According to AFRICOM, the strike was carried out on Tuesday following a request from the Somali government.
It aimed to support the Somali National Army (SNA), which was engaged in a confrontation with al-Shabab militants at the time.
"Working with the Somali National Army, U.S. Africa Command’s initial assessment is that the U.S. airstrike killed five al-Shabab terrorists and that no civilians were injured or killed," AFRICOM's statement read.
This development underscores the precision and care exercised by the forces to minimize collateral damage.
The recent airstrike is part of an ongoing campaign against al-Shabab that has been significantly intensified since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared an all-out war against the extremist organization in 2022.
The extremist group has long been a source of instability in the region, orchestrating attacks and fomenting violence.
These targeted airstrikes have been particularly focused on key al-Shabab figures based in southern and central Somalia.
Despite facing opposition and military pressure, the group has managed to maintain a stronghold in certain regions of the country.
However, recent efforts have demonstrated the collective determination to dismantle their infrastructure and leadership.
The joint operation between Somali and U.S. forces exemplifies the collaborative approach to counterterrorism, marking a testament to international efforts to stabilize the region and eliminate the threat posed by al-Shabab.