SOMALIA, U.S. Forces Strike ISIS-Somalia in Puntland, Killing Multiple Operatives
AFRICOM, in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, aimed to disrupt ISIS-Somalia’s ability to threaten U.S. and partner forces.
SOMALIA — On March 29, 2025, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted a significant airstrike southeast of Bosasso, Puntland, targeting ISIS-Somalia. The operation killed multiple operatives, with no civilian casualties reported, confirmed by AFRICOM, as part of a broader effort to counter terrorism in Somalia.
AFRICOM, in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, aimed to disrupt ISIS-Somalia’s ability to threaten U.S. and partner forces.
This strike follows recent operations by the Somalian National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) against Al-Shabaab, reflecting a coordinated push to dismantle terrorist networks across the region.
Key Developments: Latest Airstrike
On March 29, 2025, AFRICOM executed an airstrike southeast of Bosasso, Puntland, targeting ISIS-Somalia. The operation eliminated multiple operatives, with AFRICOM’s initial assessment confirming no civilian harm.
Specific details were withheld to ensure operational security, but the strike underscores the U.S. commitment to degrading ISIS-Somalia’s capabilities. AFRICOM highlighted the group’s history of attacks on American and partner forces, emphasizing its threat to U.S. security interests.
Historical Context: Earlier Operations
In the days leading up to AFRICOM’s strike, NISA reported significant operations against Al-Shabaab. On March 28, 2025, NISA, with the Somali National Army, conducted two airstrikes.
The first, in Gilgoob, Middle Shabelle, killed 21 Al-Shabaab members, including key leaders, according to NISA. A second strike in Tirsana Khawaarijta, Galguduud, also killed 21 Al-Shabaab militants, per NISA’s statement.
On March 27, NISA carried out a ground operation in Hirran province, Shabelle region, targeting a "Khawarij" camp in Galkayo, though specific casualty details were not provided in NISA’s statement.
Khawarij is a derogatory name the Somalian government calls Al-Shabaab militants. These operations highlight Somalia’s multi-faceted approach to combating terrorism.