U.S. Air Campaign Expands in Somalia Amid Militant Resurgence
The United States has carried out 51 airstrikes in Somalia this year, marking the most intense phase of its drone operations in the Horn of Africa since 2019. Despite the growing number of air raids, Al-Shabaab and Islamic State militants have recently regained control of key territories, raising questions about the effectiveness of foreign military efforts.
The latest strikes, conducted on July 13, targeted Daesh (ISS) fighters in the Cal Miskaad mountains in Puntland’s Bari region. These operations supported Operation Hilaac—a Puntland-led counterterrorism initiative launched in late 2024 to dismantle Daesh networks operating from remote mountain bases near Bosaso.
According to U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), at least 30 airstrikes this year have focused on Daesh in the north, while 20 targeted Al-Shabaab positions in southern and central Somalia, notably in Hiiraan and Jubaland. If the pace continues, 2025 could surpass the 63 airstrikes recorded in 2019 under former President Donald Trump.
Despite the aerial campaign, Al-Shabaab recently captured the towns of Moqokori, Gumare, and Tardo in Hirshabelle State, displacing Somali federal troops and Ma’awisley militias. Lawmakers have criticized the federal government for failing to provide essential supplies like water and ammunition to frontline forces.
The group is now threatening towns such as Bulobarde and Jalalaqsi, defended by Djiboutian African Union troops. However, aid access has been disrupted due to increased insecurity along key roads.
Meanwhile, AFRICOM has temporarily stopped releasing casualty figures in strike statements as part of a policy review. This move has drawn criticism from Somali civil society and rights groups, who say the lack of transparency undermines civilian protection and accountability.
General Michael Langley, AFRICOM’s commander, defended the command’s record in May, stating that protecting civilians remains a top priority.
As militants regroup and gain ground, the situation underscores the challenges facing Somalia’s fragile security landscape, where air power alone may not be enough to stem the tide.