(14-09-23) MOGADISHU — Airstrikes, primarily conducted by the United States and Turkey, have proven instrumental in the Somali federal government’s ongoing first-phase offensive against Al-Shabaab in Galmudug and Hirshabellee states.
The aerial attacks last week targeted key members of the group who were high on the federal government’s list of wanted figures, including Olol Ali Guled, Shuuke Ali Dheeg, and Isse Barre. Guled was identified as the top leader of Al-Shabaab in Galmudug. Notably, the operations are now emphasizing the importance of previously targeted figures such as former Al-Shabaab leader Ahmed Abdi Godane and senior commander Aden Hashi Eyrow, particularly in the Galmudug and Hirshabelle states.
Abdullahi Mohamed Nur, Somalia’s former security minister and the President’s Senior Adviser on Combating and Countering Violent Extremist Ideology, spoke to VOA Somali service on Thursday, stressing the significance of air support from international allies.
“The support of Somalia’s friends in the air has a huge impact. When you look at the terrorist groups they fight, they hate the air war the most,” said Nur.
He further elaborated that Al-Shabaab fighters are particularly vulnerable to aerial assaults, and have no capability to withstand such high-level operations.
“They have a lot of fear; they hate it and cannot resist the air assistance that Somalia receives from international friends,” continued Nur.
The airstrikes have been a collaborative effort, carried out in coordination with the security agencies of Somalia and its international allies.
Nur pointed out that historical evidence suggests top leadership within Al-Shabaab has been specifically targeted and neutralised through airstrikes, reinforcing their effectiveness in undermining the group’s capabilities.
As Somalia continues its battle against Al-Shabaab, the role of airstrikes appears increasingly crucial. With a strategy that combines ground operations with aerial support, Somalia’s government, along with its international allies, seems better positioned than ever to deal a decisive blow against the extremist organisation.
Halqabsi News
