The U.S. military launched coordinated airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) operatives in Somalia, marking the first such action in the African nation during President Donald Trump’s second term. The strikes, executed by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), were directed by Trump and carried out in collaboration with Somalia’s government, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Multiple IS Operatives Killed in Precision Strikes
An initial Pentagon assessment confirmed that the strikes resulted in the deaths of multiple IS operatives, with no reported civilian casualties. The operation specifically targeted a senior IS planner and recruits hiding in caves used as operational bases.
Trump took to social media to announce the success of the mission, stating:
“The strikes destroyed the caves they live in and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians. Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn’t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did!”
While Trump did not disclose the name of the targeted IS planner, he emphasized that the mission sends a strong message to terrorist groups threatening U.S. interests: “WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!”
Growing IS Threat in Somalia
U.S. military officials have warned about the increasing presence and operational sophistication of IS cells in northern Somalia, where they have received direct guidance from IS leadership. Intelligence reports indicate that these cells have been trained on kidnapping tactics, drone evasion, and small quadcopter construction for surveillance and attacks.
The Islamic State’s presence in Puntland’s Bari region, specifically in the Cal Miskaat mountains, is estimated to be in the hundreds, according to the International Crisis Group. A previous U.S. airstrike in May 2024 killed three IS militants in the region, underscoring the ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
Strategic Implications of the Strikes
The latest strikes highlight Trump’s renewed commitment to combating IS in Africa, a policy shift from the Biden administration’s approach. Under Biden, counterterrorism efforts in Somalia were more focused on al-Shabaab, with fewer strikes against IS-affiliated groups. With Trump back in office, analysts expect an aggressive counterterrorism strategy targeting IS and al-Qaeda factions operating in Africa.
The White House has not yet commented on the operation, but AFRICOM reiterated its commitment to working alongside Somalia’s government to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure regional stability.
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