In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on Nov. 21, 2025.The airstrike occurred in the vicinity of the Golis Mountains, approximately 65 km southeast of Bossaso.AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia's ability to threaten the U.S. Homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.Specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security.

U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said Thursday that it carried out a series of airstrikes against Islamic State militants in Somalia’s Puntland region, in coordination with the country’s federal government. In a statement, AFRICOM said the strikes targeted ISIS-Somalia positions in the Gollis Mountains, approximately 60 kilometers southeast of Bosaso. The command described the operation as part of ongoing efforts with Somali security forces to “degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.” The latest operation comes amid an intensifying U.S. air campaign across Somalia. AFRICOM has increased the tempo of its strikes in recent months, including attacks this week in areas surrounding Jamame in Middle Jubba. Those strikes were launched in support of joint operations involving the elite Danab Special Forces and Jubbaland regional troops, who are conducting an offensive against al-Shabab in the region. Local reports have alleged that these Middle Jubba strikes resulted in multiple civilian casualties. The Gollis Mountains strike also follows a controversial episode in September, when a U.S. airstrike in the Sanaag region killed Omar Abdillahi Abdi, a clan elder. The strike, which reportedly involved three missiles, hit Abdi’s vehicle as he traveled alone through Ji’anyo between Elbuh and Badhan. In the days after the strike, AFRICOM alleged that Abdi had been a weapons dealer supplying al-Shabab — a claim rejected by both Abdi’s family and al-Shabab itself, each insisting he had no connection to the militant group. His family has since built a memorial in his honor. U.S. military activity in Somalia has expanded significantly. Since Donald Trump took office, AFRICOM has dramatically increased the pace and scope of its air operations, with roughly 100 airstrikes conducted so far this year — already the highest annual total on record.

Al-Miskaad, Puntland – Puntland’s Counter-Terrorism Forces are making decisive strides in Operation Hilaac, seizing critical territory and pushing ISIS fighters closer to their likely final refuge in the Baallade Valley, sources say. Nestled within the rugged Al-Miskaad mountains, the Baallade Valley has long served as a key sanctuary for ISIS militants. Recent reports indicate the group has surrendered multiple strategic positions, leaving their remaining central bastion surrounded by advancing Puntland troops. While the area has faced aerial bombardment, the militants’ fortified caves make a ground assault perilous, requiring careful planning to avoid heavy casualties. A source close to the operation described the imminent capture of Baallade as a potential turning point for Puntland’s counter-terrorism campaign. Yet, even if the stronghold falls, remnants of ISIS may continue to stage sporadic guerrilla attacks. The latest phase of the offensive saw a fresh airstrike targeting militants hidden in the Maragade well area of the valley. Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces, supported by US Africa Command, carried out the strike. “This afternoon, an airstrike hit ISIS fighters concealed in the Maragade well area of Baallade Valley. Our U.S. partners continue to provide crucial air support to our ongoing operations in Al-Miskaad,” the team confirmed. Throughout Operation Hilaac, Puntland forces have benefited from air assistance provided by both US Africa Command and the United Arab Emirates. Several foreign fighters have been captured, while others were eliminated, underscoring the operation’s intensifying pressure on ISIS in northeastern Somalia.