In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted three (3) airstrikes in two (2) locations targeting al-Shabaab militants in the vicinity of Qunyo Barrow and Caliyoow Barrow, Somalia, respectively, on Dec. 29, 2019.

“Since al-Shabaab’s first external attack in 2010, the group has ruthlessly killed hundreds,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. William Gayler, director of operations, U.S. Africa Command. “They have attacked and killed African partners, allies, and fellow Americans.  They are a global menace and their sights are set on exporting violence regionally and eventually attacking the U.S. homeland.”

Initial assessment concluded two airstrikes killed two (2) terrorists and destroyed two (2) vehicles in Qunyo Barrow; and one airstrike killed two (2) terrorists in Caliyoow Barrow.

We currently assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of these airstrikes. We comply with the principles of the Law of Armed Conflict during the course of our operations to ensure the safety of civilians.

These precision airstrikes targeted al-Shabaab militants responsible for terrorist acts against innocent Somali citizens and coordinating with al-Qaeda. The U.S. and the Federal Government of Somalia will continue to increase pressure on the terrorist organization in order to deny them the ability to plot terrorist attacks.