US Airstrikes Target IS Operatives in Somalia

The US Africa Command (Africom) has conducted airstrikes in Puntland, Somalia, aimed at IS positions, The Times of India reported. The operation, carried out in coordination with the Somali government, targeted multiple IS-Somalia operatives southeast of Bosasso, a key port city. Initial assessments indicated that several IS members were killed, with no civilian casualties reported.

This airstrike is part of an ongoing counter-terrorism campaign in the region. Just two days prior, US forces executed a similar operation, and previous strikes have successfully eliminated prominent IS leaders. While the Islamic State maintains a presence in Somalia, it is significantly smaller than that of Al-Shabaab, the Al-Qaeda-linked group that controls large areas of the country. However, IS has been increasing its influence in Puntland, which has become a critical base for its operations.