Defcon Alerts Threat Monitor: Africa

Somali Forces Conduct Operations Against Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle, Bay, and Hiiraan Regions

Defcon Level — Sun, 24 May 2026 23:40:21 GMT

SOMALIA — Somali Armed Forces and National Intelligence and Security Agency units carried out continued operations against Al-Shabaab. The operations covered Middle Shabelle, Bay, and Hiiraan regions.

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The most recent operations were carried out on May 24 in the Tardo area of Hiiraan region and a follow-up airstrike on May 23 in the Ugunji area of Lower Shabelle region, according to Ministry of Defense and NISA statements.

Earlier operations included a civilian rescue in Middle Shabelle and a response near Baidoa in Bay region, according to the Ministry of Defense statements.

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Operations in Hiiraan Region

U.S. Details Record DART Deployment, $382 Million in New Commitments, and Private-Sector Collaboration In Ongoing Ebola Outbreak Response

Defcon Level — Sun, 24 May 2026 01:38:51 GMT

CENTRAL AFRICA — On May 23 the Department of State issued a detailed update on its ongoing response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, highlighting concrete financial commitments, operational deployments, and new private,sector partnerships not previously quantified in public releases.

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The announcement confirms that a Disaster Assistance Response Team reached the ground within four days of the first case notification, described as the fastest ever DART deployment for a U.S. Ebola response.

The update also specifies $32 million in bilateral assistance already provided to seven named implementing partners and the expedited obligation of $300 million from a prior $1.8 billion commitment to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, per the May 23 Department of State media note.

Current Outbreak Statistics and Geographic Spread

Somali Military Airstrike Kills Six Al-Shabaab Militants in Lower Shabelle

Defcon Level — Fri, 22 May 2026 20:38:37 GMT

EAST AFRICA — The Somali military carried out an airstrike in the Ugunji area of Lower Shabelle on May 22 targeting Al-Shabaab militants who had regrouped within the location.

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The statement reported that the strike killed six militants and destroyed weapons and equipment, noting that the operation was carried out in coordination with international partners.

While the United States was not explicitly mentioned and U.S. Africa Command has not yet issued a statement, the U.S. has been conducting continued supportive airstrikes within in the country against ISIS fighters and Al-Shabaab.

Airstrike Against Regrouping Al-Shabaab Militants

U.S.-Nigeria Carry Out Additional Coordinated Strikes Against ISIS in Northeastern Nigeria

Defcon Level — Tue, 19 May 2026 18:43:36 GMT

NORTHEASTERN NIGERIA — U.S. Africa Command, in coordination with the Government of Nigeria, conducted additional strikes against ISIS militants on May 18. U.S. Intelligence confirmed the targets were ISIS militants at a fighter camp.

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Complete assessments remain ongoing. No U.S. or Nigerian forces were harmed during the strikes, according to the command.

Nigerian authorities confirmed the strikes followed observed convergence and migration of terrorist elements in the general area of Metele, resulting in more than 20 ISIS and ISWAP fighters being killed.

Joint operations have eliminated 175 ISIS terrorists as of May 19, destroying checkpoints, weapons caches, logistical hubs, military equipment, and financial networks.

Strike Execution and Operations

Nigeria Reports More Than 20 ISIS Fighters Killed in Second Metele Strike

Defcon Level — Mon, 18 May 2026 18:09:29 GMT

AFRICA — U.S. and Nigerian forces widened a coordinated air campaign against the Islamic State in northern Borno State on May 17, hitting ISIS and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters near Metele the day after the operation that killed the group’s most senior Lake Chad Basin commander.

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U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Nigeria’s Defense Headquarters both announced the May 17 strikes. Nigeria’s Defense Headquarters put the toll at more than 20 ISIS and ISWAP fighters.

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AFRICOM said in a statement, “intelligence confirmed the targets were ISIS militants” and that “complete assessments are ongoing,” and gave no casualty figure. No U.S. or Nigerian forces were harmed, according to both commands.

The strikes on May 17 followed the May 16 U.S.-Nigeria air-land operation at Metele that killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, named in U.S. and Nigerian releases as the most senior ISWAP commander in the Lake Chad Basin and Sahel.

Nigeria’s Defense Headquarters said the new strikes “follow the neutralisation of ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.”

May 17 Strikes Near Metele

Counter-terrorism Decapitation Strike: Joint US-Nigerian Operation Eliminates ISIS Global Deputy Abu-Bilal al-Minuki

Defcon Level — Sat, 16 May 2026 10:25:47 GMT

WEST AFRICA — Nigerian Armed Forces, in close coordination with United States forces, conducted a joint counter-terrorism operation overnight that targeted and eliminated a senior Islamic State (ISIS) leader identified as Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, also known as Abu-Mainok or Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.

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Early assessments from both governments confirm the strike occurred on the target’s compound in the Lake Chad Basin and resulted in the deaths of al-Minuki along with several of his lieutenants.

The joint operation provided an example of bilateral collaboration against ISIS networks operating in the Sahel and Lake Chad region, where the group maintains active affiliates including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Operation Details and Execution

Somalia: NISA Conducts Targeted Operations Against al-Shabaab Leadership in Hiran Region

Defcon Level — Fri, 15 May 2026 20:29:59 GMT

SOMALIA — On May 15 the Somalian National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) carried out planned operations in the Buq-aqable area of Hiran region against al-Shabaab.

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NISA forces monitoring movements of senior al-Shabaab leaders who had reached the area launched a heavy attack on a location where they were organizing militias.

The operations seriously wounded three named senior leaders and included successive strikes on training sites burning five vehicles including three BG vehicles one equipped with a 39 (thirty-nine) anti-aircraft gun.

The actions form part of NISA’s ongoing efforts in collaboration with international partners, such as the United States, to weaken al-Shabaab operational capacity and disrupt threats to the country’s national security and stability.

NISA Operations Targeting al-Shabaab Command and Training Networks in Buq-aqable, Hiran Region

U.S. Africa Command Conducts Airstrike Targeting ISIS-Somalia in the Golis Mountains

Defcon Level — Thu, 07 May 2026 18:19:57 GMT

SOMALIA — U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on May 6, in the Golis Mountains, about 75 km (47 miles) southeast of Bossaso, in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces.

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The strike followed an identical operation on May 4, 2026, in the identical Golis Mountains location southeast of Bossaso, the same location as reported in the most recent strike.

US Strikes ISIS in Somalia, Search Continues for Two Missing Service Members During African Lion Exercise in Morocco

Defcon Level — Tue, 05 May 2026 18:18:14 GMT

AFRICA — U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on May 4 in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces. The strike occurred in the vicinity of the Golis Mountains, about 47 miles (75 kilometers) southeast of Bossaso.

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According to AFRICOM, “The airstrike occurred in the vicinity of the Golis Mountains, about 75km southeast of Bossaso. AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to threaten the U.S. Homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.”

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Specific details about units and assets involved were not released to ensure continued operational security.

U.S. Service Members Still Missing, Incident Under Investigation

Sudanese Armed Forces Accuse United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia of Drone Strikes on Khartoum International Airport

Defcon Level — Tue, 05 May 2026 07:11:37 GMT

SUDAN — Sudanese authorities reported drone strikes on May 4 targeting Khartoum International Airport and additional sites in the capital, part of a barrage that followed the Sudanese Armed Forces recapture of Khartoum in March of last year, and the airport’s first international flight in three years the previous week.

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Brigadier General Asim Awad Abdelwahab, Sudanese Armed Forces spokesman, stated at a May 5 press conference alongside Foreign Minister Mohieddin Salem that the government possessed “conclusive evidence” linking the strikes to drones launched from Ethiopia’s Bahir Dar Airport with Emirati support.

The spokesman referenced flight data, wreckage from an Akinci-type unmanned combat aerial vehicle, and intelligence from a drone downed near El-Obeid in March that Sudanese forces linked to the same launch site and to the United Arab Emirates. Independent open-source verification of the wreckage type and launch origin has not been published.

The Sudanese government attributed the strikes to foreign actors. While some reports attributed the May 4 strikes to Rapid Support Forces drone capabilities, no independent forensic verification of drone origin has been published.

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum, which suspended operations in April of 2023 due to the armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, issued its alert on May 4 that said, “The Department of State has been alerted to multiple explosions at the international airport in Khartoum Monday, May 4, 2026. Other locations may have been impacted as well.”

The embassy reiterated that the U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Sudan. Recommended actions include seeking secure shelter, monitoring local media, notifying friends and family of safety, and making contingency plans to leave.

Contact points listed are the U.S. Embassy in Cairo at +20-2-2797-3300 and the U.S. Department of State at +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada or +1-202-501-4444 from elsewhere in the world.

Sudan: Drone Struck Inside Khartoum International Airport

US Conducts Airstrike, Somalian Military Kills 81 Al-Shabaab Militants in Jubbaland Offensive

Defcon Level — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 22:21:47 GMT

EAST AFRICA: The Somali National Armed Forces and Jubbaland Security Forces killed 81 al-Shabaab militants across multiple southern regions over April 14 to 15, Somalia’s Ministry of Defense (MoD) stated in two press releases. “International partner” airstrikes supported the ground operations

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U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) separately said it conducted a strike targeting al-Shabaab on April 9 “in the vicinity of Qalay, approximately 131 km northwest of Kismayo.”

The MoD said on April 14 that Somali and Jubbaland forces “are conducting a large-scale operation in areas of Lower Jubba and Middle Jubba regions.”

The operations targeted areas under Jilib, Xagar, and Afmadow districts, where “the forces have advanced on the ground.”

A follow-up MoD press release on April 15 said that the operation had expanded to Tardho, Hiiraan, Ugunji, Shabeellaha Hoose, Daynuunay, Baay, Qumbi, and Jubbada Hoose.

U.S. AFRICOM Announces Airstrikes Targeting ISIS-Somalia, Somali Armed Forces Report Strike on Al-Shabaab in Mudug Region

Defcon Level — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:04:13 GMT

SOMALIA — U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) announced on April 10 that it conducted airstrikes targeting ISIS-Somalia on April 6-7 in the Golis Mountains, 55-75 km southeast of Bossaso in Puntland.

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The operation occurred in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces.

Somali Offensive Secures Key Areas as U.S. Strikes Target ISIS; Somalia Condemns Iran For Attacks On Arab Countries

Defcon Level — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:19:09 GMT

EAST AFRICA — According to the Somali Ministry of Defense, Somali National Army forces secured Darasalaam and Mubaarak in Lower Shabelle on March 2.

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The ministry reported destruction of several Al-Shabaab command positions, weapons depots, and military equipment caches during the operation. Clearance and verification efforts continue to pursue remaining elements.

The Somali Ministry of Defense launched Operation Rolling Thunder on March 1 in Lower Shabelle to target Al-Shabaab strongholds and cut terrorist routes.

Supported by Ugandan African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) troops and international partners, the operation aims to weaken Al-Shabaab’s capacity and secure civilian and agricultural zones.

U.S. Africa Command conducted airstrikes targeting ISIS-Somalia from February 22 to 26 and on February 28 in the Golis Mountains, approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Bossaso. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated the initial assessment for February 1 strikes indicated multiple operatives killed with no civilian harm.

The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Ethiopia’s memorandum with Somaliland on March 1 as a violation of sovereignty.

Separately, the ministry condemned Iranian attacks on Arab countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, and Oman, expressing solidarity and supporting their self-defense rights.

East Africa counter-terrorism operations remain at routine tempo with no indicators of elevated threat to U.S. personnel. Partner-led gains could limit terrorist external plotting, but regional diplomatic frictions add monitoring value.

Somali Forces Advance in Lower Shabelle Offensive Against Al-Shabaab, US Airstrikes Target Golis Mountains:

Somali National Intelligence Agency Reports Elimination of Over 23 Al-Shabaab Militants in Preemptive Operations in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle

Defcon Level — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:18:22 GMT

SOMALIA — Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced February 24 that it conducted four planned operations during the week in districts of Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions, resulting in the deaths of more than 23 Al-Shabaab militants the agency stated were preparing attacks in Hirshabelle state areas.

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The agency stated the operations were carried out with the help of international partners, and followed intelligence on militant mobilization in multiple locations across Maxaas and Moqokori districts, with Commander Mustaf Caato identified.

Although U.S. forces and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) continue to operate alongside Somali units in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle, no partner has been specifically identified in connection with these strikes.

U.S. Africa Command has not issued a public release on the operations, with its most recent statements dated February 18 and covering airstrikes conducted on February 16 and 17 in Harbole and the Golis Mountains.

Key Developments

U.S. Continues Sustained Airstrike Campaign Against ISIS-Somalia and al-Shabaab in Somalia

Defcon Level — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:38:42 GMT

SOMALIA — U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) carried out multiple airstrikes targeting ISIS-Somalia and al-Shabaab militants in Somalia during the first 17 days of February, with the latest strike reported by U.S. Africa Command on February 18.

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The operations took place in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces. Strikes hit positions in the northeast Puntland region and in southern and central areas, continuing AFRICOM’s support for Somali counter-terrorism efforts against both groups.

The strikes reflect a high operational tempo, with activity reported on at least nine dates. AFRICOM has stated that the actions aim to degrade the militants’ ability to threaten U.S. forces, Somali security personnel, and civilians.

No specific details on munitions, aircraft, or battle damage assessments were released, consistent with operational security protocols.

Timeline of Confirmed Airstrikes

U.S. Forces Execute Airstrike Against ISIS-Somalia in Gollis Mountains as Somali Operation Hidden Sword Secures Advances in Lower Shabelle

Defcon Level — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 18:49:52 GMT

SOMALIA — On February 13, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia militants in the Gollis Mountains, roughly 31 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of Bossaso, in partnership with Somalia’s federal government.

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This operation supports Somali-led efforts to counter terrorist threats in the region. At the same time, Somali National Army forces, aided by African Union troops, continued progress under Operation Hidden Sword in Lower Shabelle, including a joint raid on January 15, in Bulunagaad that neutralized over 30 Al-Shabaab militants and captured weapons stockpiles.

The U.S. airstrike aimed at degrading ISIS-Somalia’s operational strength, with no reported civilian casualties according to official assessments.

Details on participating units remain classified for security purposes. Somali advances in Lower Shabelle involved coordinated maneuvers that disrupted Al-Shabaab logistics and secured key coastal positions.

Developments

U.S. Forces Conduct Airstrike Targeting al-Shabaab in Southern Somalia

Defcon Level — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:29:06 GMT

SOMALIA — In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab on February 9, in the vicinity of southern Somalia, approximately 32 miles (51 kilometers) northeast of Kismayo.

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This operation continues efforts to degrade al-Shabaab’s ability to threaten U.S. forces and citizens abroad. The initial assessment indicates no civilian casualties.

Key Developments, Analysis:

Somali Forces Eliminate 14 Al-Shabaab Militants in Lower Juba Amid US Airstrikes Against ISIS and Al-Shabaab

Defcon Level — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:37:28 GMT

SOMALIA — On February 10, Somali Danab Special Forces, in coordination with Jubaland State security forces, conducted a targeted operation against Al-Shabaab militants in areas around Jamaame in Lower Juba region.

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This military action resulted in 14 militants killed, one injured, and the rest fleeing, according to the Somalian Ministry of Defense, as part of broader efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in southern Somalia.

US Africa Command supported Somali partners with airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia early in February, including operations on February 3 and February 1 in the Golis Mountains near Bossaso, aimed at degrading militant capabilities threatening regional and international security.

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Al-Shabaab Controls Rural South, ISIS-Somalia Operates In The Northeast:

U.S. Conducts Airstrike Against ISIS-Somalia in Golis Mountains and Delivers Military Equipment to Somali National Army in Middle Shabelle

Defcon Level — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:42:44 GMT

SOMALIA — In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia operatives in the Golis Mountains on February 1.

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The strike, authorized by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, resulted in the deaths of multiple operatives with no civilian casualties reported.

This operation continues efforts to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s capabilities amid ongoing threats in the region.

Separately, United States forces delivered military equipment, including heavy weaponry, to the Somali National Army in the Middle Shabelle region to bolster counter-terrorism operations.

Middle Shabelle region. TUBS, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia

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Airstrike Operation

Drone Attack Targets Bangoka International Airport in Northeastern DRC, Authorities Attribute Incident to M23 Armed Group

Defcon Level — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 07:26:09 GMT

NORTHEASTERN DRC — Provincial authorities in Tshopo reported that eight drones equipped with explosives targeted Bangoka International Airport near Kisangani on January 31.

Bangoka International Airport. Credit: Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia

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Authorities attributed the incident to the M23 armed group and Rwanda. All drones were intercepted and neutralized prior to reaching the target, resulting in no reported casualties or structural damage.

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This incident represents an extension of M23 activities westward, beyond their established areas of operation in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

The drones were described by provincial officials as one-way attack types carrying unconventional munitions, with interceptions occurring between early Saturday and Sunday.

No entity has publicly claimed responsibility for the action, within the context of ongoing armed conflicts involving multiple groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.