Somalia’s Dual Front Victory: Puntland Crushes ISIS, National Army Strikes Al-Shabaab Strongholds

Somalia’s Dual Front Victory: Puntland Crushes ISIS, National Army Strikes Al-Shabaab Strongholds

Somalia is on the offensive—and terror groups are running out of breath.

In the northern Bari region, Puntland forces have scored a landmark victory by capturing 98% of the Calmiskaat mountain range, a core sanctuary of ISIS. While the group's elusive leader, Abdikadir Mumin, managed to escape—likely tipped off and now in hiding—his infrastructure is in ruins. The ongoing “Hillaac Operation,” announced by General Mohamud Ahmed Faadhigo, has entered its fourth phase to root out remaining ISIS cells.

Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni made it clear: this is more than a local battle. Fighters from across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas have been neutralized. It is Somalia’s counterterrorism effort—but the implications are global.

Meanwhile, in the southern regions, the Somali National Army (SNA) is on a relentless push against Al-Shabaab. A sweeping three-day operation in Bakool—backed by local Ma’awisleey militias—wiped out multiple militant bases across key villages. Terrorists abandoned their posts without a fight, exposing their fragility under pressure.

In Lower Shabelle, the “Operation Silent Storm” continues to hammer Al-Shabaab cells. Heavy fighting in Sabib and Anole has marked this campaign as one of the most intense in recent months. With support from ATMIS, the SNA is advancing to secure the region, disrupt regrouping, and restore order.

The message from Somalia’s leadership is clear: this is a war they intend to win. With multi-phase campaigns, strategic coordination, and people-powered militias, Somalia is regaining control of its land—and rewriting its story.