Somalia and the African Union Strengthen Partnership in Security Transition

Somalia and the African Union Strengthen Partnership in Security Transition

In a significant diplomatic meeting held in Mogadishu, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre welcomed Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, the newly appointed Special Representative of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The meeting underscored the continued collaboration between Somalia and the African Union in fighting terrorism and advancing Somalia’s security transition. Prime Minister Barre updated the AU delegation on the government’s military efforts against al-Shabaab and stressed Somalia’s unwavering commitment to defeating terrorism and regaining full state control.

Ambassador Diene expressed strong support for Somalia’s path to stabilization, praising the resilience of its people and government. He reaffirmed AUSSOM’s role in facilitating a smooth and strategic handover of security duties to Somali forces, in line with the national Transition Plan. As Somalia prepares for the final phases of AU troop drawdown, the partnership between Somalia and the African Union remains critical to lasting peace and sovereignty.

 

Somalia and Germany Deepen Cooperation on Migration and Border Security

Somalia and Germany Deepen Cooperation on Migration and Border Security

In a key diplomatic engagement, Mustafa Sheikh Cali Dhuxulow, Director General of Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA), met with Dr. Dieter Romann, President of Germany’s Federal Police Headquarters, to strengthen bilateral cooperation on migration, border security, and mobility.

The high-level meeting, held during an official working visit to Germany, brought together senior officials from both countries to discuss a wide range of priorities—including modernizing border control systems, enhancing international recognition of the Somali passport, and promoting safe and legal migration pathways for Somali citizens.

According to a statement from the ICA, the discussions aimed to tackle current migration challenges while improving the global image of Somali travel documents and expanding mobility opportunities. Both sides emphasized the need for joint action on combatting organized crime, human trafficking, and strengthening institutional capacity through training and technology transfer.

The Somali delegation also received insights into Germany’s advanced migration management practices, with detailed briefings on systems integration and security protocols. As part of the visit, Dhuxulow and his team toured Berlin International Airport, where they observed the use of cutting-edge technology in real-time border operations—a model Somalia hopes to adapt as part of its border modernization strategy.

Germany, which hosts one of the largest Somali diaspora communities in the European Union, has expressed its commitment to supporting Somalia’s efforts in building credible and secure migration systems. Both governments view this partnership as a step toward safe, orderly, and regulated migration in line with international standards.

 

Rochester’s Somali-American Team Shines at National Tournament, Earns Third Place in Seattle

Rochester’s Somali-American Team Shines at National Tournament, Earns Third Place in Seattle

The squeak of sneakers turned into echoes of pride as Rochester’s Somali-American basketball team stormed into third place at a Somali diaspora tournament held in Seattle from July 3–6. Defying expectations, the young, undersized squad left a big mark on the court—and in their community.

The annual tournament, organized by East African Community Services, drew 16 Somali-American teams from across the U.S. and Canada. For Rochester, Minnesota—a city with a Somali population of around 10,000—this wasn’t just about basketball. It was about visibility, representation, and community pride.

Despite being one of the smallest teams, Rochester pulled off stunning upsets against teams from Denver and Westside Ohio, earning a semifinal spot. Their journey ended against Minneapolis, but not before Sabir Ahmed, an 18-year-old guard, lit up the scoreboard with 39 points, including seven three-pointers in the quarterfinals.

Seattle’s Stars won the tournament, but Rochester's third-place finish was a breakthrough—its best result yet at a national Somali tournament.

“This team is more than basketball,” said Coach Muhidin. “It builds brotherhood, pride, and keeps these young men connected as a community.”

For many of the players, aged 21 or younger, the trip to Seattle was their first time on a plane. Off the court, the team visited landmarks like the Space Needle, Seattle Waterfront, and caught views of Mount Rainier. But it was the court where they made their biggest memories.

“I take a lot of pride in being Somali,” said Ahmed, a recent high school graduate who holds a 3.7 GPA and will play college basketball at Gustavus Adolphus College this fall.

Though often outsized—Rochester’s tallest player, Dom Malith, stood at 6'5”—the team made up for it with smart passing, perimeter shooting, and tight defense. Their rise reflects a growing movement in Somali-American basketball, where youth leagues and travel teams are gaining momentum in cities like Minneapolis, Columbus, and Atlanta.

“We shocked them,” said Ahmed. “Nobody thinks about Rochester when they think about Somali basketball—but we’re getting closer to the championship every year.”

Rochester’s squad will next compete in a regional Somali tournament in Atlanta this fall. But for Coach Muhidin, the wins go beyond scores and rankings:

“This allows us to showcase our people. And it’s our youth—they’re the ones who will change the narrative about who we are.”

 

Somalia Launches Climate Finance Framework with First National Climate Fund Steering Committee Meeting

Somalia Launches Climate Finance Framework with First National Climate Fund Steering Committee Meeting

 

The Federal Government of Somalia has officially launched a new national climate finance system, marking a major step in addressing climate change challenges across the country. The announcement came during the first meeting of the High-Level Steering Committee of the National Climate Change Fund, chaired today by Minister of Finance Biixi Imaan Cige.

The meeting focused on improving access to climate financing and enhancing investment in climate-resilient projects. Participants discussed strategies to accelerate the operations of the National Climate Change Fund and ensure better coordination among national and international partners.

Also present at the meeting were the Ministers of Planning, Environment and Climate Change, the Governor of the Reconstruction and Development Bank, and the Executive Director of the Climate Fund, Mr. Liiban Obsiye, who was appointed by Presidential Decree.

The committee highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between Somalia and international organizations working in climate and environmental sectors.

Somalia remains one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, frequently facing floods and droughts caused by irregular rainfall patterns. The establishment of the National Climate Change Fund reflects the government’s commitment to mobilize resources and protect communities from the worsening impacts of climate change.

Africa Tech Challenge 2025 Kicks Off in Nairobi, Empowering Youth with Practical Skills

Africa Tech Challenge 2025 Kicks Off in Nairobi, Empowering Youth with Practical Skills

The 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC) officially launched this week in Nairobi, Kenya, continuing a decade-long mission to equip African youth with practical, market-relevant technical skills. The program is sponsored by Chinese firm AVIC International and supported by Kenya's Ministry of Education, AVIC Innovation Holding, and the China Education Association for International Exchange.

This year’s edition brings together 142 teams and 568 participants from 12 African countries, making it one of the most inclusive events to date. The program includes a month-long training phase from July 29 to August 27, followed by a two-day competition on August 28–29. Participants will compete in three categories: mobile application development, mechanical engineering, and CNC turning.

Esther Mworia, Principal Secretary in Kenya’s Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, emphasized the importance of the initiative:

“This remarkable initiative continues to be a beacon of innovation, skills development, and youth empowerment across Africa.”

Over the past ten years, more than 1,300 young Africans have gained hands-on experience in fields like advanced manufacturing and design technologies through the ATC. According to Wang Runlan, President of AVIC INNO Project Engineering Company, the initiative has significantly contributed to youth empowerment by offering technical training, mentorship, and industry exposure.

“We celebrate more than technical skills; we celebrate resilience and ambition,” Wang said.

The top two winners of this year’s challenge will receive fully-funded scholarships to study in China, while runners-up will be awarded cash prizes. The ATC continues to serve as a powerful platform for nurturing African talent and preparing the next generation of innovators and professionals.

 

Somali Woman with ISIS Ties to Be Deported from the U.S. After Immigration Fraud Conviction

 

Somali Woman with ISIS Ties to Be Deported from the U.S. After Immigration Fraud Conviction

A 27-year-old Somali woman, Sowda Ahmed Mohamud, will be deported from the United States after pleading guilty to multiple felony charges related to immigration fraud and false statements. The case gained attention due to her family ties to a senior ISIS-Somalia leader.

Mohamud was arrested in March 2024 by U.S. Border Patrol while trying to enter the country illegally and claiming asylum. During processing, authorities identified her as a match linked to terrorism-related activities. A year-long investigation by the FBI’s San Diego Joint Terrorism Task Force followed, uncovering multiple false statements in her asylum applications.

She admitted to lying under oath and hiding her previous asylum attempts in the U.S., U.K., and Brazil. She also failed to disclose that her biological brother is Mohamed Ahmed Qahiye, a high-ranking member of ISIS-Somalia, known for securing weapons and funding for the terrorist group.

As a result of the investigation and guilty plea, Mohamud was sentenced to 48 days (time already served) and ordered removed from the U.S. Authorities have not confirmed whether she will be deported to Somalia or another country.

U.S. officials praised the work of the FBI and Homeland Security in protecting national security and maintaining the integrity of the immigration system.

Why Supporting the Somali Army is a Global Duty

Why Supporting the Somali Army is a Global Duty

The Mission Beyond Borders

The Somali National Army (SNA) is not just fighting a domestic battle—it’s waging a regional war against terrorism. Every town liberated from Al-Shabaab is a win for all of Africa. By standing against extremism, the SNA is securing trade routes, protecting regional economies, and preventing extremist ideologies from spreading.

Sacrifice Without Limelight

Unlike global armies with billion-dollar budgets, Somali soldiers operate with minimal resources. Yet, their courage is unmatched. They enter deadly zones, clear villages, and protect innocent civilians—all while being far from the spotlight of international media. Supporting them isn’t just a patriotic act, it’s a moral obligation.

Your Role in Their Victory

You may not carry a weapon, but your words matter. Every post, like, share, or donation helps build morale. It tells the soldiers that we see them, we value them, and we stand with them. In this war against terror, the digital battlefield is as real as the physical one. Let’s use our voices to lift our heroes.

 

Galmudug Forces Strike Major Blow Against Al-Shabaab in Southern Mudug

Galmudug Forces Strike Major Blow Against Al-Shabaab in Southern Mudug

In a successful counterterrorism operation, Galmudug’s regional security forces, in coordination with local units from Bahdo and Wisil, killed at least nine Al-Shabaab militants—including senior commanders—during a night raid in the village of Adaleey, near A’ad town in the Mudug region.

The joint operation targeted a known Al-Shabaab hideout and resulted in the complete destruction of a militant compound. According to regional security sources, the site had been used as a base for launching attacks and as a safe haven for mid- and high-ranking operatives. The action marks a significant disruption of the group’s infrastructure in central Somalia.

“This is part of a wider strategy to clear Al-Shabaab from rural areas where they operate in secrecy,” said a commander involved in the mission. He also emphasized the importance of coordination between security forces, community members, and religious leaders—an alliance that proved vital to the success of the mission.

Over recent months, Galmudug has stepped up military efforts in response to persistent attacks by Al-Shabaab, a group affiliated with al-Qaida that continues to carry out ambushes, bombings, and targeted killings.

Southern Mudug remains a critical front in Somalia’s national campaign to defeat insurgency. Each successful operation reclaims ground not just geographically, but symbolically—reaffirming that Somalia’s people and institutions will not allow terrorism to thrive.

 

A Call for Justice: Domestic Violence Case in Mogadishu Sparks Outrage and Demands for Reform

A Call for Justice: Domestic Violence Case in Mogadishu Sparks Outrage and Demands for Reform

A disturbing case of domestic violence in Mogadishu has ignited widespread public anger and renewed urgent calls for stronger protections for women in Somalia. The incident involves a woman named Khadro Abdullahi Mohamud, who was violently assaulted by her husband just days after returning to Somalia from the Netherlands.

The suspect, Mohamed Abdullahi Ali, was arrested in the Deyniile district of the Banadir region following allegations that he used a heavy stone to strike his wife in the face. The brutal attack caused serious injuries, with graphic images circulating across Somali social media, drawing national and international attention.

According to Banadir regional police chief Mahdi Omar Mumin, the suspect has been taken into custody and will face legal proceedings under Somali law. Police also stressed that violence against women will not be tolerated, and the investigation is ongoing.

Khadro, speaking to local media, recounted the horror she experienced. “I had only been in the country for a week,” she said. “He bullied and tortured me. I don’t know why he did this to me.” Her statement, coupled with the severity of her injuries, has moved many to demand justice not only for her but for all women who suffer silently in similar situations.

While some unofficial sources have speculated that jealousy may have been a motive, police have not confirmed this. Regardless of motive, the public response has been clear: there is zero tolerance for gender-based violence, and accountability is essential.

Human rights organizations and activists across Somalia have voiced strong condemnation of the assault, calling for tougher laws, more secure shelters for survivors, and education to challenge harmful norms that enable abuse. Many believe that this case should serve as a turning point in Somalia’s approach to gender-based violence.

As Somalia continues to rebuild, empowering and protecting women must be a national priority. Justice for Khadro is not just about punishing one man—it’s about sending a powerful message that no woman should suffer in silence, and that her dignity, safety, and rights must be defended at all costs.

 

The Somali National Army: A Rising Symbol of Strength in Africa’s War Against Terror

 The Somali National Army: A Rising Symbol of Strength in Africa’s War Against Terror

Somalia’s National Army is earning global recognition—not just for its battlefield victories but for its role as a symbol of resilience, hope, and regional leadership in the fight against terrorism. Every day, Somali forces advance into formerly terror-controlled areas, defeating al-Shabaab, ISIS, and al-Qaeda operatives who once spread fear and chaos across communities.

These victories are not random. They are the result of a determined strategy led by Somalia’s government, fueled by intelligence, and powered by the unmatched courage of Somali soldiers. Explosives caches have been destroyed, terror commanders eliminated, and civilian areas liberated. With every mission, the Somali flag rises where fear once stood.

But this battle is more than a military one—it’s emotional, social, and national. The Somali people are standing firmly behind their army. Across the country, civilians celebrate victories, support returning soldiers, and share a deep pride in the mission their sons and daughters carry forward.

The Somali Army is now seen as a rising model for other African nations. Its progress proves that with unity, clear vision, and international support, terrorism can be rolled back even in the most difficult regions. The global community should recognize Somalia not only as a battleground but as a beacon of victory.

As this momentum continues, it becomes clear: Somalia’s National Army is not just fighting for Somalia—they are fighting for the stability of the Horn of Africa and beyond. Their sacrifices are shaping a future of peace for millions.

Somalia’s Gaashan Forces Deliver Strategic Blow to al-Shabaab in Dhanaane

Somalia’s Gaashan Forces Deliver Strategic Blow to al-Shabaab in Dhanaane

In a major step forward in Somalia’s ongoing fight against terrorism, the elite Gaashan Special Forces, operating under the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), carried out a successful operation on Monday in the Dhanaane area of the Lower Shabelle region. The mission targeted and destroyed a house used by the al-Shabaab militant group to store explosives, further weakening the group’s operational capacity.

According to a statement from security officials, the strike was based on verified intelligence confirming that the location was being used to prepare attacks on both civilian populations and government institutions. Importantly, the operation was conducted with careful planning to ensure no civilian casualties occurred. "The house was identified as a key storage facility for al-Shabaab’s explosive materials,” the statement read, adding that the site was cleared of civilians before the operation was launched.

This mission is part of the broader campaign led by Somalia’s federal government to dismantle al-Shabaab’s infrastructure in the southern regions. Dhanaane, in particular, has seen multiple counterterrorism operations. On June 3, Gaashan forces conducted a separate mission in the same area that resulted in the elimination of a senior al-Shabaab commander responsible for coordinating attacks in Dhanaane, Jilib Marka, and Gandarshe.

NISA emphasized that such operations will continue in the coming weeks with the goal of eliminating al-Shabaab’s remaining strongholds and restoring lasting peace and security to the Somali people. As the campaign intensifies, the bravery and precision of Somalia’s security forces continue to inspire hope across the nation 

Somali Forces Deal Major Blow to Al-Shabaab Across Four Regions

Somali Forces Deal Major Blow to Al-Shabaab Across Four Regions

 

The Somali National Army, in coordination with local clan militias, has successfully carried out large-scale operations targeting Al-Shabaab militants in Galgaduud, Lower Shabelle, Middle Shabelle, and Lower Juba. Over 15 fighters from the terrorist group were neutralized in these offensives.

One of the most notable targets was Ibrahim Abdirahman Sanbuur, a senior Al-Shabaab figure killed in the Harboole area of Lower Juba. Sanbuur had reportedly been part of the group since 2010 and played a significant role in its operations.

Another key success came in Xiingaduud, between Amara and Qodqod, where 11 militants were killed in a precisely executed mission. Additional operations in Mido and Harboole further weakened the group’s hold on southern Somalia.

Abukar Macalin, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense, emphasized that these victories were made possible through strong collaboration between national forces and local communities. “These achievements reflect the strong partnership between our forces and the people,” he said.

As Somalia intensifies its campaign to restore peace and stability, such joint efforts are proving critical in dismantling Al-Shabaab's influence and reclaiming territory for the Somali people.

Lionel Messi's 6th brace in 7 games seals Inter Miami's win over Red Bulls

 Lionel Messi's 6th brace in 7 games seals Inter Miami's win over Red Bulls

Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass on Saturday night, leading Inter Miami to a dominant 5-1 win over the New York Red Bulls. With two goals and two assists, Messi helped erase an early 1-0 deficit and sparked a scoring surge that gave Miami a 3-1 lead by halftime. Telasco Segovia netted twice, while Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez also played crucial roles in the comeback.

The Red Bulls opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Alexander Hack, but their momentum faded quickly. Messi equalized with a beautiful cross to Alba, then set up Segovia for a second goal just minutes later. The first half ended with another goal by Segovia, taking advantage of a rebound in stoppage time.

Messi sealed the game with goals in the 60th and 75th minutes, bringing his MLS tally to 18 goals and 27 total contributions this season. Inter Miami has now won six of its last seven matches and continues to dominate the league. Meanwhile, the Red Bulls struggled to keep up, managing just one shot on target out of nine attempts.

Why the Somali Army Is Becoming Africa’s Model Force Against Terrorism

Why the Somali Army Is Becoming Africa’s Model Force Against Terrorism

In a world increasingly plagued by insurgent violence, Somalia has become an unlikely success story. At the heart of that transformation is the Somali National Army — a force that has grown from fractured beginnings into one of the continent's most determined anti-terror units.

Every week, the army liberates towns, arrests Al-Shabaab commanders, and dismantles ISIS cells. These victories aren’t just military gains — they’re social lifelines. They mean reopened schools, safe roads, and markets full of life again.

What sets the Somali Army apart is not only its bravery but its bond with the people. Civilians welcome troops like family. Youths volunteer to join. Communities rebuild the moment peace arrives.

African nations and global observers are now pointing to Somalia as proof that terrorism can be defeated — not through foreign armies alone, but by local forces with national purpose.

The Somali soldier today fights not just for his land but for the security of a continent. And with each victory, Somalia rewrites its future.

Somali Forces Strike Hard in Harboole Amid Intensified Anti-Al-Shabaab Campaign

 Somali Forces Strike Hard in Harboole Amid Intensified Anti-Al-Shabaab Campaign

The Somali National Army (SNA), backed by its elite Danab Commandos, conducted a high-impact operation this week in the Harboole area of Lower Juba, targeting Al-Shabaab leadership and combatants in a strategic move to disrupt the group's stronghold in southern Somalia.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Defense on Saturday, the operation resulted in significant casualties among Al-Shabaab's senior leadership. While the statement did not include exact numbers or names, officials confirmed that more details would be shared as the operation progresses.

This operation is part of a broader and increasingly aggressive military campaign by the Somali government to weaken the al-Qaida-linked group, which has maintained control over several regions and frequently launches deadly attacks on both military and civilian targets.

In recent weeks, Somali forces have expanded their military activities in key regions including Jubbaland, Southwest, and Hirshabelle. These operations aim not only to eliminate militant threats but also to reclaim territory and restore government authority in areas long plagued by insecurity.

For more than a decade, Al-Shabaab has posed a serious threat to Somalia’s stability. However, with renewed efforts, strategic military planning, and strong coordination among regional forces, the government is showing tangible progress in turning the tide.

Stay informed as Somalia continues its push for peace, security, and sovereignty.

Drones Alone Can’t Win Somalia’s War on Terror

 Drones Alone Can’t Win Somalia’s War on Terror

In 2025, the United States has launched 51 airstrikes across Somalia—one of the most intense drone campaigns since 2019. Yet the situation on the ground tells a more complex story.

In the north, U.S. strikes have targeted Islamic State (ISIS) militants hiding in the Cal Miskaad mountains of Puntland. These attacks support Operation Hilaac, a multi-phase counterterrorism offensive by Puntland forces aimed at dismantling ISS strongholds near Bosaso. Phase IV of the operation is currently underway, focusing on flushing out remaining cells.

But while ISIS is under fire in the north, Al-Shabaab is advancing in central and southern Somalia. Within just two weeks, the group has recaptured three towns in Hirshabelle state—Moqokori, Gumare, and Tardo—forcing government troops and Ma’awisley militias to retreat.

The discrepancy highlights a key problem: airstrikes alone are not enough. Federal lawmakers have criticized the government for failing to deliver even basic logistical support—like water tankers—to frontline units. As Al-Shabaab surrounds key towns like Bulobarde and Jalalaqsi, local fighters say they feel abandoned.

Meanwhile, AFRICOM’s decision to withhold casualty numbers from recent airstrike announcements has raised concerns among Somali civil society groups. While the U.S. military insists it remains committed to transparency, human rights monitors say more consistent reporting is essential for accountability.

Somalia’s battle against terror requires more than just bombs from the sky. It demands coordination, supply chains, ground support, and a real commitment to those doing the fighting.

Frontline Courage: How the Somali Army Defends a Nation Under Siege

 Frontline Courage: How the Somali Army Defends a Nation Under Siege

Every day, Somali soldiers wake up not knowing if they will return home.

Their battleground is not just remote deserts or abandoned buildings — it’s inside cities, villages, and even schools under threat.

They face car bombs, ambushes, and snipers. But they do not waver.

While terrorists target innocent lives, our National Army protects them — with limited resources but unlimited determination.

These men and women do more than carry guns.

They carry the weight of a nation on their shoulders.

It’s time the world recognizes their bravery.

And it’s time we, the Somali people, stand behind them with pride and unity.

This is a war for Somalia’s soul. And our soldiers are winning it — one act of courage at a time.

U.S. Remittance Tax Threatens Somalia’s Economic Lifeline

 U.S. Remittance Tax Threatens Somalia’s Economic Lifeline

A new U.S. tax targeting money transfers is raising alarm across the developing world—especially in Somalia, where remittances are vital for survival. Set to begin on January 1, 2026, the policy introduces a 1% fee on all international remittances. Initially framed as a 3.5% tax on non-citizens under Donald Trump’s immigration bill, the law aims to fund enforcement measures but could devastate low-income countries.

Remittances: Somalia’s Lifeline

Somalia received around $1.73 billion in remittances in 2023—more than all humanitarian and development aid combined. These funds support families with essentials like food, medicine, education, and water. With foreign aid already being slashed—over 40% of USAID funding to Somalia was suspended in 2025—the added tax on remittances threatens to tip many households into crisis.

Wider Economic Consequences

According to economists, the new tax could cause a 5–6% drop in formal remittance flows, leading to reduced household incomes and weakened consumer demand. In Somalia, where remittances make up to 50% of GDP, the consequences could be catastrophic.

Pushing Transfers Underground

History shows that when remittance costs rise, people switch to informal channels. A 5% fee could reduce official transfers by 17.7% and increase informal flows by over 21%. Migrants may turn to unregulated systems like hawala, courier services, or even cryptocurrency, undermining efforts to build safe and transparent financial systems.

Remittance Services Under Pressure

Somali money transfer companies already face high compliance costs and razor-thin margins. The tax could decrease transfer volumes and increase per-transaction costs, affecting both senders and recipients.

Alternatives to Taxation

Experts argue that lowering transaction fees would be more effective than taxing remittances. Currently, the average global cost of sending money is 6.6%—far above the UN’s 3% goal. Reducing this fee could compensate for more than half the aid losses in several countries, including Somalia.

What’s at Stake

For millions of Somali families, the difference between receiving $100 or $99 could mean the difference between eating or going hungry. While the tax is expected to generate only $10 billion over 10 years, it may cost poorer nations over $2.5 billion annually in lost remittance flows and ripple effects.

As Somalia and other vulnerable nations brace for this change, global policymakers face urgent questions: Is it worth hurting the poorest to fund enforcement measures? Or can there be a smarter, more humane approach?

Somalia’s Intelligence Forces Deal a Major Blow to Al-Shabaab in Hiiraan

 Somalia’s Intelligence Forces Deal a Major Blow to Al-Shabaab in Hiiraan

Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), in close cooperation with international partners, carried out a successful military operation that killed 15 al-Shabaab militants near Gayacad junction, close to the Mabaax area in the Hiiraan region.

The operation, which took place on Saturday, was based on solid intelligence and executed in three strategic phases. It targeted a group of militants who had been mobilized from Adan Yabal and Ceel Cali Ahmed in the Middle Shabelle region. These militants were reportedly heading to reinforce al-Shabaab fighters trapped in parts of Hiiraan.

Despite their efforts to avoid detection by hiding in remote bushland, the joint forces managed to intercept and neutralize the group. Five other militants were wounded in the operation. Although some fighters escaped during the raids, security forces have launched a manhunt to track them down.

According to security officials, all three waves of the operation achieved their objectives. NISA emphasized its continued commitment to dismantling the terror group’s operational networks and acknowledged the critical support of international allies in the ongoing fight against terrorism in Somalia.

This operation marks another important step in weakening al-Shabaab’s capacity to organize and launch attacks, reinforcing the message that there is no safe space for extremists within Somalia.

Chelsea win FIFA Club World Cup with victory over PSG

 Chelsea win FIFA Club World Cup with victory over PSG

In a dramatic and unexpected final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Chelsea demolished European giants Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 to win the FIFA Club World Cup. Former U.S. President Donald Trump was on hand to present the medals and trophies to both teams, adding political flair to an already headline-grabbing event.

The Blues stormed ahead in the first half, with Cole Palmer scoring two nearly identical goals in the 22nd and 30th minutes. Just before the break, he set up Joao Pedro for a beautiful chip over PSG keeper Donnarumma, making it 3-0 before halftime.

PSG struggled to respond, and their frustrations boiled over in the 85th minute when Joao Neves was sent off for pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair. A late scuffle between players, including PSG coach Luis Enrique confronting Chelsea stars, added tension to an already heated match.

The halftime show featured performances by J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, while pre-match festivities caused a delayed kick-off.

After the game, Trump awarded Palmer the Golden Ball (Best Player), Sanchez the Best Goalkeeper trophy, and PSG’s Désiré Doué the Silver Ball.

While the spectacle drew global attention, it also revived concerns about player burnout. “We already play around 60 games a year,” noted Kylian Mbappé. “When it’s too much, it’s too much.”

Chelsea may have lifted the trophy, but the conversation around player welfare is far from over.