Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
The United States military has confirmed that it carried out an airstrike targeting ISIS militants in Somalia.
According to US Africa Command (AFRICOM), the strike targeted three ISIS members who were near the town of Dhaardaar, an extremely remote area roughly 50 miles from Bosaso, Somalia. Initial information we have obtained from sources near the strikes indicates there were not one but two strikes, with one targeting a “training camp.”
In a statement, AFRICOM said, “In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike in Somalia targeting ISIS militants. An initial assessment of the strike is that three ISIS militants were killed, with no civilian casualties. US Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting innocent civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa. ISIS has conducted numerous attacks globally, including terrorist attacks in Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, all while continuing to plot against U.S. homeland and personnel and interests around the world, as well as regional partners, and others globally. U.S. Africa Command, alongside its partners, continues to take action to prevent this terrorist group from planning and conducting attacks, which disproportionately harms civilians.”
Despite being driven out of its strongholds in Iraq and Syria years ago, ISIS remains active in various regions, including Africa. The group’s affiliate in Afghanistan has carried out significant attacks, but its presence in Somalia is also notable. While US military operations in Somalia primarily target the al-Qaeda-linked militant group al-Shabaab, ISIS still remains a persistent threat. Last year, a US special operations mission in Somalia killed Bilal al-Sudani, a leader of the terror group in the Horn of Africa.
