MOGADISHU – The Somali National Army, in coordination with international partners, has conducted a series of airstrikes against Al-Shabaab positions in the Middle Shabelle region, killing 26 militants and destroying vehicles and fuel depots used by the group, according to the Ministry of Defence.
The strikes targeted militant strongholds in the Cadow Jilib, Gayfo, and Qordheere areas, which officials said had been used by the group as operational bases and staging grounds for attacks. A vehicle and a fuel depot were also destroyed in the strikes, further degrading the group’s logistical capacity.
The operation is part of an ongoing campaign of precision airstrikes in the Middle Shabelle region, which has seen nearly 30 militants killed in recent weeks and training camps, logistics hubs, and weapons stockpiles destroyed.
In a separate operation in July, airstrikes in Lower Shabelle killed 27 Al-Shabaab fighters and wounded more than 20 others, reflecting the escalating tempo of counter-terrorism operations across southern Somalia.
Targeting Militant Infrastructure
The Ministry of Defence said the strikes were part of an ongoing campaign to degrade Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities. The targeted locations were identified as sites where militants were assembling for attacks. The strikes follow similar operations in the region, including a February 2026 airstrike that killed 15 Al-Shabaab militants who were planting landmines on a key road.
The ministry expressed gratitude to international partners supporting Somalia’s counter-terrorism efforts, acknowledging their role in enabling the success of ongoing operations. The United States has significantly ramped up its aerial campaign in Somalia, with nearly 50 airstrikes conducted in the first quarter of 2026 alone.
Escalating Military Pressure
The Federal Government of Somalia has intensified aerial and ground operations against Al-Shabaab in recent months, as part of its commitment to eliminating the group and ensuring national security. Somali security forces, supported by international partners, have intensified operations across southern Somalia, targeting the group’s leadership, infrastructure, and territorial holdings.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s declaration of a “final offensive” has triggered a wave of defections, with several senior Al-Shabaab commanders surrendering to Somali forces in recent days.
Way Forward
The Ministry of Defence and the Somali National Army High Command reaffirmed their commitment to sustained operations against Al-Shabaab, stating that such strikes would continue across all regions where the group maintains a presence. The government has stated that operations will continue until lasting peace and stability are achieved across the country.
Recommended Reading On ftlsomalia.com:
- Somali Forces Kill Nearly 30 Al-Shabaab Militants in Middle Shabelle Airstrikes
- Defence Ministry: Airstrikes Destroy Al-Shabaab Positions in Tawakal, Nuun Garre and Ugunji
- Airstrike in Middle Shabelle Neutralizes 15 Al-Shabaab Members Planting Landmines
- ‘Final Offensive’ Triggers Wave of Defections as Al-Shabaab Leaders Surrender in Lower Shabelle
