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 has conducted a series of airstrikes in northern Somalia, killing multiple ISIS terrorists.

Some shit you should know before you read: Over the last few years, ISIS has continued to expand its presence in Somalia, establishing strongholds in Puntland’s mountainous regions and growing to an estimated 1,000 fighters. Unlike the larger al-Shabab group, ISIS-Somalia has focused on recruitment, financing, and facilitating international terrorist operations. Since Trump took office, the US has ramped up military operations in Somalia, significantly increasing airstrikes against ISIS operatives and infrastructure. One notable strike, personally ordered by Trump earlier this month, targeted an ISIS bomb maker hiding in Somalian caves.

What’s going on now: In an announcement on Monday, US Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed that a recent airstrike in northern Somalia killed multiple ISIS terrorists, including two senior bomb-makers, and destroyed a bomb-making facility. The strikes targeted ISIS positions in the Cal Miskaad mountain range, specifically in the villages of Godka Kunle and Xankookin, areas known to house key ISIS operatives and logistical hubs. Puntland security officials, who worked alongside US forces in coordinating the attack, reported that at least 16 terrorists were killed, with efforts underway to confirm the identities and nationalities of the high-ranking members eliminated.

AFRICOM noted that no civilians were harmed in the operation and said the mission was part of ongoing efforts to degrade ISIS’s operational capabilities and prevent future attacks on US and allied interests.

Following the airstrikes, ISIS launched a counterattack using drones to target Puntland security force bases in the region. Puntland forces successfully shot down five of the drones, while two others, believed to be carrying explosives, detonated. Despite this attempted retaliation, Puntland officials stated that their forces remained in control of the area and continued operations to dismantle ISIS infrastructure. The US also confirmed that the United Arab Emirates also played a role in supporting the operation.