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US airstrikes surge against ISIS and al-Shabaab in Somalia

Nov 28, 2025, 1:44 PM10
(Update: Nov 28, 2025, 1:44 PM)
country primarily in North America
Somalia-based cell of the militant Islamist group al-Qaeda
one of the Unified Combatant Commands of the United States Armed Forces
president of the United States from 2017 to 2021
President of the United States since 2021

US airstrikes surge against ISIS and al-Shabaab in Somalia

  • In 2024, U.S. Africa Command carried out over 100 airstrikes in Somalia against ISIS-Somalia and al-Shabaab.
  • Recent operations revealed high-value ISIS targets were struck, with reports of terrorist casualties.
  • The rise in U.S. military actions highlights growing concerns regarding the resurgence of al-Shabaab amidst political fragmentation in Somalia.
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In 2024, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) significantly increased its airstrikes in Somalia, taking military action against ISIS-Somalia and al-Shabaab. This escalation culminated in a reported total of more than 100 airstrikes conducted this year alone, a stark rise from only 10 airstrikes carried out during the Biden administration. Local sources reported that one of the operations involved a successful strike that led to the potential death or capture of a high-ranking ISIS leader and the elimination of up to 10 terrorists. The airstrikes are part of a broader strategy aimed to combat groups that pose threats to U.S. allies and the homeland, with American military officials describing the operations as aimed at degrading the capabilities of these terrorist groups. One notable attack took place in Puntland, where drones and helicopters were utilized to strike terrorists considered to be entrenched in a large cave. Despite these aggressive operations, U.S. military officials emphasized that American troops did not engage on the ground, stressing the importance of operational security in their statement. However, the effectiveness of these airstrikes is being called into question. The increase in military actions argues for a necessity in response to the growing threat posed by al-Shabaab. The group has been able to take advantage of shifting international focus, using the opportunity to strengthen its operational presence in Central and Southern Somalia. This resurgence has occurred amidst a fragmented political landscape in Somalia, characterized by ongoing power struggles between the Federal Government of Somalia and regional entities like Puntland and Jubaland. This political instability hampers cohesive counterterrorism efforts and raises concerns about the potential for al-Shabaab to expand its influence further in the region. As the U.S. continues its aerial operations, the challenge remains to ensure sustained local and international coordination, which are pivotal for an effective counter-terrorism strategy. The current U.S. military endeavors underline a commitment to protect both American interests and allies in the face of a persistent and evolving terrorist threat.

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