Senior al-Shabaab leaders were reportedly killed by an airstrike near the town of Sablale in the Lower Shabelle Region of Somalia on 22 November, 2024; at least 12 deaths were recorded—three commanders and “several senior leaders” were included in the count. The strike was allegedly perpetrated in part by the Somali National Army; sources also alleged US involvement.

Garowe Online, referencing Somali officials, reported that the militants were “in a meeting at the time the military struck”. Sablale, the nearest town, is “considered a key command center” for the group, according to Agenzia Nova.

With Garowe Online supposing the Somali Army and “partners” as responsible, Agenzia Nova reported that it was “unclear” who launched the airstrike, but clarified that “the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) commits frequent similar attacks”. Somali Magazine was more forthright, claiming that the “strategic airstrike” was “carried out by the U.S. military in partnership with Somali government forces”.