FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                             June 17, 2019

U.S. airstrikes target al-Shabaab in support of the Federal Government of Somalia

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted two airstrikes targeting al-Shabaab militants in the vicinity of Jilib, Somalia, on June 16, 2019.

“With these coordinated airstrikes, we continue to degrade and deny al-Shabaab’s freedom of movement in the region,” said Air Force Brig. Gen. William P. West, deputy director of operations, U.S. Africa Command. “Precision airstrikes like these are one part of our strategy working with the Federal Government of Somalia to increase security and protect the Somali people.”

At this time, it is assessed the airstrikes killed two (2) militants.

Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of these airstrikes.  Our process and procedures allow for additional information to inform post-strike analysis.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to work with its partners to transfer the responsibility for long-term security in Somalia from AMISOM to the Federal Government of Somalia and its Member States.  In support of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces will use all effective and appropriate methods to assist in the protection of the Somali people, including partnered military counterterrorism operations with the Federal Government of Somalia, AMISOM, and Somali National Army forces.