Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. target al-Shabaab network

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab militants in the Golis Mountains, Somalia, on May 24, 2019.

“Persistent pressure on the network ensures the threat is contained while degrading Al Shabaab capabilities,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Robert Huston, deputy director of operations, U.S. Africa Command. “We will continue to provide assistance to the Federal Government of Somalia.”

Precision airstrikes such as these support Somali security forces efforts to protect the Somali people from terrorism while creating opportunities for increased governance to take hold. The Golis Mountains are a known area for al-Shabaab camps and ongoing fighting between al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia.

At this time, it is assessed the airstrike killed three (3) militants.

Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike.  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.