MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a recent statement, Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyadin Addow, the commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), disclosed that government forces are set to restart military operations against the al-Shabab militant group in southern and central Somalia.
The operations were temporarily halted due to the holy month of Ramadan.
Major General Ibrahim emphasized that the SNA, in collaboration with local and international partners, is committed to eliminating the threat posed by al-Shabab and restoring peace and stability in the affected regions. The resumption of military operations is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
The al-Shabab militant group, which has links to Al-Qaeda, has been active in Somalia for over a decade, seeking to overthrow the government and impose its strict interpretation of Islamic law. The group has carried out numerous attacks on civilians, government officials, and security forces, as well as neighboring countries such as Kenya and Uganda.
The upcoming military operations are part of a broader effort by the Somali government to combat terrorism and establish control over its territory. The SNA has been working closely with the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and other international partners to improve its capabilities and effectiveness in counter-terrorism operations.
The international community has expressed its support for the Somali government’s efforts to combat al-Shabab and restore peace and stability in the region. However, concerns remain over the potential for civilian casualties and the long-term impact of military operations on the humanitarian situation in Somalia.
As the SNA prepares to resume its operations against al-Shabab, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation and providing support as needed to ensure the protection of civilians and the successful elimination of the terrorist threat.