Puntland mobilizes clans to counter rising ISIS threat

Puntland is enlisting the support of clans in the Bari region to combat the growing threat of ISIS, which has entrenched itself in parts of the region. The mobilization effort, spearheaded by First Deputy Speaker Mohamed Bari Shire, follows a deadly attack in Dharjaale village that exposed significant security vulnerabilities.

On December 31, 2024, Puntland security forces thwarted an ISIS assault on a military base in Dharjaale, killing 12 militants, including foreign fighters. The attack, marked by a suicide bombing and intense combat, leftover 20 soldiers dead and more than 30 injured. Deputy Speaker Mohamed Bari Shire narrowly survived the attack, which highlighted the increasing audacity of ISIS operations in the region.

Traditional leaders from remote eastern villages, particularly near Al Miskaad, have been urged to collaborate with Puntland authorities to drive ISIS militants out of their territories. During meetings with tribal elders, Shire described Bari as a "predator's haven," overrun by ISIS and Al-Shabaab. He stressed the urgent need for grassroots unity to reclaim the region from extremist groups.