Somali president joins push for renewed offensive against ISIS after key victory

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Thursday February 6, 2025

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud / Photograph: Girma Berta

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has renewed his call for stepped-up military operations against ISIS militants entrenched in the Al-Miskaat Mountains of the northeastern Bari region. The president’s call follows a significant victory by Puntland’s Daraawiish forces, which killed over 50 militants, including high-ranking foreign operatives, in a 24-hour battle centred around key ISIS strongholds.

In a statement, President Mohamud praised the operation, calling it a “historic victory” for Puntland forces and local communities. He also urged federal agencies to increase their support for the ongoing offensive. “I call on the government to accelerate the implementation of support for the heroes who have mobilized to liberate our territories,” he said.

Mohamud added that the campaign against terrorism is part of a national strategy aimed at eliminating extremist threats throughout the country. He emphasized the importance of unity in defeating militant groups. “The government and the Somali people, united, will defeat these coalitions of terror and liberate every inch of our land,” Mohamud said.

The president’s comments reflect the growing focus on eliminating ISIS strongholds, particularly in remote regions like Bari, where militants have exploited the rugged terrain to build hideouts and command centers. His remarks follow widespread praise for Puntland’s recent military achievements, including from key Somali political figures.

The speaker of the House of the People, Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe, praised Puntland’s role in eliminating foreign fighters, describing it as an important milestone in the fight against extremism. Former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire also commended the operation, noting its significance in Somalia’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts.

However, the Somali government’s renewed commitment comes amid criticism over its perceived lack of recognition for Puntland’s contributions to the anti-ISIS offensive. Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, a prominent opposition leader and head of the Wadajir Party, recently condemned the federal government for downplaying Puntland’s role, particularly in intelligence gathering and ground operations.

Puntland’s offensive, which targeted militant bases in Dharin and Qurac, cost the lives of 15 Puntland soldiers but resulted in significant gains against ISIS, which has maintained a limited but strategic presence in Somalia. The operation came on the heels of U.S. airstrikes in the region that targeted senior ISIS leaders, including a top attack planner.

Security analysts warn that while ISIS poses a smaller threat than Al-Shabaab, its ability to recruit foreign fighters and coordinate attacks makes it a serious concern. The Somali government has committed to sustained efforts to prevent the group from regaining a foothold in liberated areas.

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