The U.S. military has recently conducted targeted airstrikes focused on Islamic State (ISIS) operatives in Somalia, marking the first military action in the region under President Donald Trump during his second term.
Details of the Operations
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that these operations were authorized by the President and executed in partnership with the Somali government.
Initial assessments from the Pentagon indicated that several terrorists were eliminated during the strikes, and importantly, there were no reports of civilian casualties.
In his statements, President Trump highlighted that the primary goal of these strikes was to disrupt a crucial ISIS strategist linked to recruiting efforts.
He noted that this military initiative not only targeted militant infrastructure but also inflicted substantial damage on the group, all while protecting civilians.
Trump criticized the previous administration for its lack of urgency in confronting this lingering threat, asserting that his administration has taken vigorous measures to combat it.
Targeted Militant Activities
Although the Pentagon has not disclosed the name of the particular ISIS planner who was targeted, military sources indicate that the ISIS factions in Somalia have been operating under intensified directives from leaders who have reportedly moved to the north of the country.
These militants are adopting advanced strategies, learning new tactics such as kidnapping Westerners, evading reconnaissance drones, and creating small drones for their operations.
According to the International Crisis Group, the number of Islamic State fighters in Somalia is estimated to be in the hundreds, with a significant presence reported in the Cal Miskaat mountain range in Puntland’s Bari region.
Source: Militarytimes