The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Islamic State operatives in Somalia, marking the first attacks in the African nation during President Donald Trump’s second term. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the strikes were directed by Trump and coordinated with Somalia’s government, resulting in the elimination of “multiple” operatives with no civilian casualties. Trump announced on social media that the strikes targeted a senior IS planner and recruits, destroying their caves without harming civilians. The Pentagon’s counterterrorism strategy in Africa has faced challenges, especially after Chad and Niger ousted U.S. forces from key bases last year. The IS affiliate in Somalia, which broke away from al-Shabab in 2015, is led by Abdulkadir Mumin and is primarily active in the Galgala Mountains. Despite facing counterterrorism pressure, the group continues to operate and expand its influence through recruitment and propaganda. The operation in Somalia followed recent military airstrikes in northwest Syria, targeting a senior operative in an al-Qaeda affiliate.
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Photo credit fox4kc.com
Trump confirms US military airstrikes against Islamic State in Somalia
