MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Somali National Army (SNA) is intensifying its operations against Al-Shabaab militants in the HirShabelle region, particularly in the western parts of Hiran and sections of the Middle Shabelle, according to Sheikh Abukar Mohamed, the spokesperson for Somalia’s Ministry of Defense.
In a media briefing, Sheikh Abukar detailed that the military’s focus is on liberating territories still under Al-Shabaab’s influence within the HirShabelle administration’s jurisdiction. “Our forces are moving into areas where Al-Shabaab is known to operate, aiming to dismantle their hold and restore government control,” he stated.
The spokesperson highlighted that Hiran and Middle Shabelle were among the initial regions where Al-Shabaab faced significant setbacks, marking them as critical zones for the ongoing first phase of the broader liberation campaign across southern and central Somalia.
Sheikh Abukar’s comments come amidst reports of increased military activity and mobilization in these regions, signaling a robust response to Al-Shabaab’s persistent threat. The operations are part of a strategic push to not only combat the militants but also to ensure lasting security and governance in liberated areas.
This offensive aligns with the broader national and international efforts to curb the influence of Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked group that has plagued Somalia with insurgency, terrorism, and governance challenges for years.
