Somalia Says 29 Al-Shabaab Militants Killed in Jabad Operation

Somalia’s Defense Ministry announced that 29 Al-Shabaab militants were killed in a Jabad operation, destroying weapons and vehicles with international partner support.

Somalia’s Ministry of Defense announced on Thursday, January 1, that 29 members of the militant group Al-Shabaab were killed in a coordinated operation in Jabad, located in the country’s southeastern region. The ministry confirmed that the operation received support from international partners.

Vehicles and weapons reportedly intended for terrorist attacks were also destroyed during the operation, the ministry added, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to countering Al-Shabaab’s activities.

Al-Shabaab has been active in Somalia since 2007, waging an insurgency to overthrow the internationally recognized Somali government and impose its strict interpretation of Sharia law. The group has carried out attacks across the country, targeting civilians, government officials, and international forces.

The operation in Jabad comes amid increased counterterrorism coordination between Somalia and international allies, including the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and Western security partners. These efforts have intensified in response to a rise in militant activity in southern and central Somalia.

Over the past year, Somalia has strengthened intelligence sharing and military coordination with partner nations to target Al-Shabaab leaders and disrupt the group’s supply networks. Analysts say these efforts have reduced the group’s operational capabilities in several key regions.

Al-Shabaab continues to control parts of rural Somalia and remains capable of launching attacks in urban areas, including the capital, Mogadishu. The group has also sought to expand influence in neighboring countries, raising regional security concerns.

The Ministry of Defense emphasized that operations against Al-Shabaab will continue, with a focus on eliminating terrorist threats and ensuring the safety of civilians throughout the country.

Officials concluded that maintaining international cooperation is crucial for Somalia to sustainably degrade Al-Shabaab’s networks, strengthen national security, and prevent further destabilization in the Horn of Africa.

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