US, Somalia Carry Out Continued Count-Terrorism Operations, Airstrikes Against Al-Shabaab
U.S. airstrikes on May 31 and June 2, 2025, targeted ISIS-Somalia near Bassaso, aiming to disrupt their operational capabilities.
SOMALIA — On June 6, 2025, Al-Shabaab launched an attack in the Mudug region of Somalia, resulting in the deaths of 40 foreign fighters, while U.S. airstrikes on May 31 and June 2, 2025, targeted ISIS-Somalia near Bassaso, aiming to disrupt their operational capabilities.
These events, coupled with ongoing Somali government efforts highlight a multifaceted campaign involving local forces and international partners to stabilize the region.
Historical Roots of Militancy in Somalia
The conflict in Somalia traces back to the mid-2000s when Al-Shabaab emerged as a radical offshoot of the Islamic Courts Union following its dissolution in 2006. The group capitalized on the country’s political instability, gaining prominence after Ethiopia’s U.S.-backed intervention in 2006, which drove the recruitment of both local and foreign fighters.
By 2011, Al-Shabaab controlled significant territories, including Xarardhere, until the Somali National Army (SNA), supported by the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), began reclaiming key areas.
ISIS-Somalia splintered from Al-Shabaab in 2015, establishing a presence in Puntland, particularly around Bassaso, exploiting the region’s rugged terrain.
U.S. counter-terrorism efforts intensified after 2017, with hundreds of airstrikes between 2017 and 2025 targeting both groups, reflecting a long-term strategy to degrade their capabilities amid Somalia’s fragile security landscape.
Acronym Index
Al-Shabaab: A militant group in Somalia
ISIS-Somalia: Islamic State affiliate in Somalia
NISA: Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency
SNA: Somali National Army
AMISOM: African Union Mission in Somalia
USAFRICOM: U.S. Africa Command
MOD Somalia: Ministry of Defense of Somalia
Timeline of Key Events
2006, December: Al-Shabaab emerges following the Ethiopian intervention in Somalia.
2014, March: SNA recaptures Xarardhere from Al-Shabaab control.
2015, October: ISIS-Somalia pledges allegiance to the Islamic State, establishing a foothold in Puntland.
Early 2025: Joint aerial operation near Ceel-Hareeri neutralizes over 40 Al-Shabaab militants.
Early to mid 2025: Continued operations against Al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalian militants, including numerous airstrikes by the United States, likely using U.S. Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drones.
2025, May 31: USAFRICOM conducts an airstrike against ISIS-Somalia 75 miles (121 kilometers) south of Bassaso.
2025, June 2: USAFRICOM targets ISIS-Somalia southeast of Bassaso in a second airstrike.
2025, June 6: Al-Shabaab attacks Mudug region, with 40 foreign fighters killed in Operation Sirdonka.
Total Reported Impact, Analysis, Statements:
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