Somali forces regain control of Bal'ad after deadly Al-Shabaab attack

Somali government forces regained control of Bal'ad on Thursday after repelling a deadly pre-dawn attack by Al-Shabaab militants, authorities said.

The attack began when Al-Shabaab fighters detonated a series of coordinated roadside bombs targeting military positions on the town's outskirts before launching a full-scale assault. The militants briefly seized control of some areas before Somali forces, backed by reinforcements, counterattacked and expelled them.

Government officials said the army inflicted heavy casualties on the militants. "The Somali National Army delivered a decisive blow to the Kharijite terrorists who attacked Balcad before dawn," the federal government said in a statement, using a term to describe Islamist extremist groups.

Witnesses reported that at least dozens of militants were killed in the fighting, with their bodies strewn across the farmlands surrounding Bal'ad. Security officials said they are assessing government and civilian casualties, though no official figures were immediately available.

The assault on Bal'ad follows a string of Al-Shabaab attacks in Middle Shabelle in recent weeks as the extremist group continues its insurgency despite an ongoing military offensive aimed at dismantling its strongholds.

Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaida-linked militant group, has waged a violent insurgency in Somalia for over 15 years, seeking to overthrow the internationally recognized government.

 Shunned by family, judged by society: A Somali woman’s defiant fight for love

Faadumo was only seven when a medical error left her partially paralyzed, altering the course of her life. Decades later, her battle is not just with physical limitations but with a society that views disability as a mark of shame.

Her biggest challenge came when she fell in love. She and her partner were ready to marry, but his family refused. “They told him to find another woman,” she recalled. “For them, my disability was unacceptable.”

Despite the rejection, they wed. However, acceptance never followed. “Every night, my mother-in-law took my husband to another room, saying, ‘This disabled woman might pass her condition to you.’” Community whispers and judgment added to her suffering.

The situation worsened when she became pregnant. “His family pressured us to separate while I was expecting,” Faadumo said. “They believed that because I was disabled, my child would be too.”

More than one in ten Somali adults lives with a disability, with women disproportionately affected. Deep-seated cultural beliefs often associate disabilities with bad luck, making those affected vulnerable to discrimination and exclusion.

For years, Somali activists fought for legal recognition. Mohamed Diiriye, a visually impaired advocate, led efforts to pass the National Disability Protection Act. After years of delays, President Hassan Sheikh signed it into law in December 2024.

 Somali army kills over 70 Al-Shabaab militants in Middle Shabelle offensive

The operation, which involved airstrikes and ground assaults, targeted militant hideouts in Adow-Guray (Hiiraan region), El Ali Ahmed, and Al Kowsar (Middle Shabelle region), according to the Ministry of Information. Government officials said the mission was launched preemptively to prevent an Al-Shabaab attack on civilian areas and security installations.

Security officials reported that Somali forces and local Ma’awisley militia successfully disrupted Al-Shabaab's planned assault, killing dozens of fighters and forcing others to retreat. "More than 70 Al-Shabaab militants were eliminated in preemptive operations carried out by the National Army and local forces," the ministry said in a statement.

During the operation, troops seized a cache of weapons and ammunition and destroyed armored vehicles used by the militants. Somali forces reportedly captured key positions that had served as strategic strongholds for the insurgents.

 Puntland forces capture key ISIS strongholds in Al-Miskaat mountains

Puntland regional forces seized several strategic sites from the Islamic State group (ISIS) in the Al-Miskaat mountains of Puntland’s Bari region on Sunday.
The military operation captured key locations—including Dararmadobe, Uraar and the Four Corners of Mountains in Gaatir Oodan—that had served as command and defense bases for ISIS militants over many years.

Officials said vehicles and motorbikes rigged with explosives were found in the areas. These devices had been destroyed by recent airstrikes conducted by the federal government in collaboration with the United States.
Troops also uncovered mass graves containing bodies. Among those discovered were senior ISIS members killed in the airstrikes, according to Puntland authorities.

Security forces have been conducting operations against the terrorist group for more than a month, liberating large areas from its control.
Somalia has been plagued by insecurity for years, with the main threats emanating from the terror groups al-Shabaab and ISIS.

 Somali, U.S. forces conduct airstrike on ISIS hideout in Puntland

Somali military forces, working with U.S. Africa Command, launched an airstrike targeting ISIS militants hiding in the Al-Miskaat Mountains in the Bari region of Puntland, Somalia.

The Somali Ministry of Information said Sunday that the strikes occurred on the evenings of Feb. 21 and Feb. 22, 2025, as part of efforts to support Puntland forces in eliminating the last remnants of ISIS. Initial reports indicate that three ISIS fighters were killed, and no civilians were harmed.

In cooperation with U.S. Africa Command, the Somali federal government said it will continue to assess the operation’s progress and update the public on further developments.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced the formation of a special committee to coordinate federal support for Puntland’s fight against ISIS. The move marks a strong show of solidarity from Mogadishu in the region’s ongoing battle against the extremist group.

At the opening session of the Somali Parliament on Saturday, Mohamud stressed the government’s duty to support Puntland. He said federal authorities must ensure that essential resources reach frontline areas where local security forces are engaged in heavy fighting with ISIS-linked militants.

Somali President opens sixth parliamentary session, highlights security and elections

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed a joint session of Parliament on Saturday, marking the opening of its sixth session in Mogadishu.  

President Mohamud focused his speech on ongoing military operations against ISIS and Al-Shabaab in Puntland and south-central Somalia, the country's security situation, and upcoming elections. He also commended Parliament for finalizing the constitution during the previous session.  

"We stand by the Puntland forces engaged in this righteous struggle against the Khawarij militants. The Federal Government of Somalia supports the forces and the people in this fight," he stated.  

The President highlighted the successful reestablishment of the Air Force and Navy, noting that they can now defend Somalia's airspace and waters. "The Federal Government is committed to protecting our waters and combating illegal fishing," he affirmed.  

On counterterrorism efforts, Mohamud noted significant progress in clearing Al-Shabaab strongholds and reiterated the government's commitment to securing liberated areas.  

President Mohamud also announced plans to establish Somalia's first satellite launch center within the year, a milestone for the Horn of Africa. 

"By the end of this year, we will launch our first satellite— a historic moment for Africa," he said, adding that construction of the facility is already underway. Turkey is building the facility to launch rockets from Somalia. 

Addressing electoral reforms, the President reassured citizens that Somalia is transitioning to a one-person, one-vote system, restoring their right to elect leaders directly.  

The National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) recently announced that local council elections will be held in June, covering regions including Gedo and Khaatumo. NIEC Chairperson Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan stated that 800 polling stations have been identified across Mogadishu, Hirshabelle, Galmudug, Jubaland—including Gedo—South West State, and the interim SSC-Khaatumo administration. 

 Somali intelligence launches manhunt for Al-Shabaab operative

The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has launched a manhunt for Abdullahi Hassan Abdi, a suspected Al-Shabaab operative accused of extorting money from residents in the Banadir region.  

In a statement, NISA said Abdi had been actively involved in collecting illegal funds through coercion and intimidation, posing a serious threat to regional security.  

“Abdullahi Hassan Abdi is a dangerous individual whose actions undermine the peace and stability of our nation. We urge all citizens to provide any information that could lead to his arrest,” the agency said.  

NISA’s appeal is part of ongoing efforts by Somali security forces to dismantle extremist networks, the statement added. The agency assured the public that any information provided would be handled with strict confidentiality.  

Authorities have urged anyone who knows Abdi’s whereabouts to contact NISA immediately. The manhunt is part of a broader counterterrorism campaign, with security forces intensifying operations across Somalia to combat terrorism and organized crime. 

 Somali government initiates WTO membership process talks in Geneva

A Somali federal government delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, met with World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in Geneva on Tuesday, marking the beginning of Somalia’s accession process to the global trade body.  

In a statement, the federal government described the meeting as a pivotal step in Somalia’s bid for WTO membership. 

Deputy Prime Minister Jama reiterated the government’s commitment to navigating the accession process, emphasizing Somalia’s goal of becoming an official member of the WTO.  

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala assured the Somali delegation of the WTO’s technical support, highlighting the organization’s role in promoting trade facilitation and economic development among member states.  

The World Trade Organization (WTO) currently has 166 member countries, representing 98% of global trade. Its members include United Nations states, the European Union, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan. 

 Somali security forces rescue four children abducted by al-Shabaab

Security forces in Somalia's South West State have rescued four children who were abducted by Al-Shabaab and forcibly taken from their families to be recruited as child soldiers, authorities said Monday.

The children, all under the age of 18, were kidnapped from different locations and transported to Buush-Madiino, a militant stronghold in the Bay region, where they were to undergo military training, according to security officials.

Speaking to South West State media, one of the children said he was taken from Rabdhuure before being transferred to Buush-Madiino. Others said they were abducted while on their way to school and held in a remote forested area controlled by the militants.

After spending several days in captivity, the children managed to escape, trekking on foot for two days through the wilderness before reaching areas under government control. Security forces later secured them in Baidoa, where they were presented to the media.

Southwest State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen's administration has called for the children to be pardoned and reunited with their families.

Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaida-linked militant group, has been waging an insurgency against the Somali government for over a decade. The group routinely recruits child soldiers, often abducting them from schools and communities in areas under its control.

 Telegram shuts down ISIS propaganda channel in Somalia amid crackdown

Telegram has removed Iclaam, a channel used by the Islamic State (ISIS) to disseminate propaganda, marking a significant step in efforts to curb extremist influence on social media. The channel, which regularly shared battlefield reports and ideological messaging, had been a key tool for ISIS operatives, particularly in Somalia’s Puntland region.

Broader push to dismantle the digital networks of terrorist groups

The removal is part of a broader push to dismantle the digital networks of terrorist groups, which have increasingly relied on encrypted messaging platforms like Telegram to recruit members and spread their narratives. While it remains unclear whether the Somali federal government played a direct role in the takedown, authorities in Mogadishu have previously shut down hundreds of websites and online forums linked to Al-Shabaab.

Taageere Radio Hijratayn

Despite the setback, ISIS maintains an online presence through Taageere Radio Hijratayn, a media outlet that operates via Facebook. The channel continues to broadcast ISIS-aligned content, particularly regarding its ongoing clashes with Puntland security forces in the Calmiskaad Mountains.

strong warnings

Puntland has intensified efforts to suppress ISIS activities within its borders. Authorities have issued strong warnings against individuals or organizations that provide material or ideological support to the group. In recent years, Puntland courts have sentenced members of the Somali diaspora and forgeigners to prison terms for allegedly endorsing ISIS online.

The fight against ISIS in Puntland has centred on the mountainous regions where the group has attempted to establish a foothold. Security forces have launched periodic offensives against ISIS militants, aiming to prevent the group from expanding its influence in Somalia.

 Ma'awisley forces capture ex-official with Al-Shabaab extortion receipts in Hiiraan region

Ma'awisley local defense forces have captured Mohamed Rashid Abdi Hussein, the former chairman of the Ganuribad area in the Hiiraan region, who was found carrying Al-Shabaab-issued receipts used for extortion.

The arrest took place on Saturday in El-Hero, a locality under the Mahaas district.

The receipts seized from the suspect are typically used by Al-Shabaab to impose illegal taxation on businesses and vehicles traveling through their areas of control. Authorities confirmed that Hussein has been detained in a Mahaas district prison, where he remains under investigation.

The Deputy Security Commissioner of Mahaas stated that an inquiry is underway to determine the full extent of Hussein's involvement with the militant group.

"We are conducting investigations into this man. What was seized from him were receipts that Al-Shabaab used to extort money from people and vehicles. The local force received intelligence about him and arrested him. I will present the investigation results soon," the official said.

Ma'awisley forces have ramped up operations against Al-Shabaab in recent weeks as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt the group's revenue streams and weaken its influence in the Hiiraan region.

 Somali military court executes three men convicted of murders in Baidoa

A military court in Somalia’s Bay region has executed three men convicted of killing civilians during mobile phone robbery and disputes in the Southwest State.

The executions took place in Baidoa over two consecutive days, following swift judicial proceedings. 

The first two convicts, Mukhtar Mohamed Noor and Noor Mohamed Hassan, both in their 20s, were executed on Wednesday for the murder of Luul Abdiladif Moalim during a robbery. 

On Thursday, the court carried out the execution of a third man, Isack Adan, who was convicted of killing Adan Mohamed in November 2024. His execution took place just minutes after the court delivered its final ruling on his case. 

Relatives of the victims, who were present at the execution site, welcomed the decision, stating that justice had been served. 

Speaking to the media after the executions, Southwest State’s Ministers of Justice and Internal Security praised the security forces for their role in capturing the perpetrators and commended the judiciary for expediting the legal process. 

 Mogadishu’s Bakara market reopens after four-day closure over tax dispute

Bakara Market, Somalia’s largest commercial hub, reopened on Tuesday after being closed for four days following negotiations between federal government officials and the business community.  

The reopening came after discussions between the Banadir Regional Business Council and Speaker of the House of the People, Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madoobe, led to a preliminary agreement addressing traders’ concerns. 

Market vendors had protested against what they described as excessive taxation and worsening security conditions, which they said were making it increasingly difficult to operate. 

Speaker Madoobe urged business owners to resume operations while acknowledging the challenges that have forced repeated closures of key commercial centers in Mogadishu.  

The closure of Bakara Market has become a recurring issue, with traders frequently shutting down in protest against government-imposed taxes, which they argue threaten their businesses’ viability. 

 Airstrike in Somalia's Puntland kills over 13 foreign Daesh fighters

Security forces in Somalia’s semi-autonomous state of Puntland announced Monday that a recent airstrike in the Bari region killed more than 13 foreign Daesh/ISIS fighters.

The airstrikes targeted terrorist hideouts as part of an ongoing counterterrorism operation over the past 24 hours, according to regional security officials.

“The airstrike operation in the last 24 hours has killed more than 13 foreign ISIS terrorists in the Dhasaq area, which is part of the Calmiskaad mountain range,” Puntland’s counterterrorism unit said in a statement Monday.

Security forces have also conducted extensive operations in the Hararyo and Toga-Jeceel areas, expanding their mission to other Daesh/ISIS strongholds.

“During the operation, they uncovered bases that had been previously used by ISIS terrorist groups,” the unit said in a separate statement on X.

The regional security forces did not specify which country carried out the airstrike. However, the strike comes more than a week after US Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed conducting airstrikes against ISIS in Somalia in coordination with the Somali government. AFRICOM said multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed in those strikes.

Security forces have been conducting operations against the terror group for over a month, liberating large areas from the group’s control.

Somalia has been plagued by insecurity for years, with the main threats emanating from the terrorist groups al-Shabaab and ISIS.

Since 2007, al-Shabaab has been fighting the Somali government and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) a multidimensional mission authorized by the African Union and mandated by the UN Security Council.

The terror group has stepped up attacks since Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared an "all-out war" on the group.

 Al-Shabaab militants regroup in Mahaday district after heavy defeats in Hiiraan region

 Al-Shabaab militants fleeing recent heavy fighting in the Hiiraan region have regrouped near the Shabelle River in Mahaday district, located in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, according to local residents.

Witnesses reported seeing large groups of militants arriving over the past few hours, with many appearing to be retreating from fierce clashes in Hiiraan. 

Government forces, along with troops from the Hirshabelle administration, have launched military operations in and around Mahaday to prevent the group from establishing a foothold.

Last Friday’s battle in Hiiraan resulted in the deaths of more than 30 Al-Shabaab fighters and the capture of three others, according to military officials. The joint operation, involving Somali government forces and local Ma’awisley militias, successfully captured key areas previously occupied by the militants.

Military commanders stated that the offensive also led to the elimination of foreign fighters who had been supporting Al-Shabaab’s operations. The ongoing military campaign aims to deny the group any opportunity to regroup and maintain its regional stronghold.

 Authorities in Somalia warn against financing terrorism

Somalia's government Saturday sent stern warnings to businesses and individuals that pay extortion money to al-Shabab, saying the full force of the law would be brought against traders and individuals who pay the al-Qaida ally.

Presenting a unified front, Somalia's Minister of Internal Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail and Minister of Religious Affairs Mukhtar Ali Robow joined the government's attorney general and the deputy minister of information at a joint news conference in Mogadishu, Somalia. They said, any business found to have paid or collaborated with al-Shabab in any way would "face legal action," including having their government-issued trading permits revoked.

"Do not let your wealth destroy your life because security forces are prepared to act against anyone attempting to collaborate with these groups," said minister Ismail.

He said in recent government actions — aimed at cutting off al-Shabab funding —security forces shut down financial accounts used by the militant group to receive funds.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared a "total war" against the al-Qaida-linked militants shortly after being elected in May 2022.

Somali Cabinet approves education and energy agreements with Azerbaijan

Somali Council of Ministers approved two key cooperation agreements with Azerbaijan in the fields of education and energy during its weekly meeting in Mogadishu on Thursday.

Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, who chaired the session, emphasized the agreements' strategic importance in enhancing closer ties between the two nations. 

"These agreements will enhance education and energy collaboration, laying the groundwork for long-term benefits," he stated.

The agreements aim to bolster Somalia's educational and energy sectors by supporting vocational training programs, improving the skills of Somali professionals, and promoting knowledge-sharing initiatives between the two countries. Officials expect this partnership to address critical gaps in Somalia's workforce and energy infrastructure.

The approval comes shortly after a visit by Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev, who explored avenues for strengthening bilateral ties across various sectors, including political, economic, and humanitarian cooperation. Discussions also focused on advancing collaboration within international organizations.

Rafiyev and the Azerbaijani delegation met with Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, and other senior Somali officials during the visit. The Azerbaijani delegation included representatives from key ministries such as Defense, Energy, Science and Education, Economy, and Agriculture, as well as the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of Azerbaijan.