MOGADISHU – U.S. forces carried out an airstrike against ISIS‑Somalia militants on March 16 in the rugged Golis Mountains, about 45 kilometers southeast of Bosaso, local officials confirmed to Arlaadi Media.
The strike is part of a broader effort by the U.S. and Somali forces to push back against extremist groups that continue to destabilize parts of the Horn of Africa.
In a statement, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the operation was conducted in close coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia.
“These strikes are designed to degrade ISIS‑Somalia’s ability to threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad,” the command said. “Specific details on the units and equipment involved were not released to protect ongoing operations”.
The Golis Mountains have long been a stronghold for ISIS‑linked fighters, who take advantage of the remote, rugged terrain to regroup and plan attacks. Analysts say these areas remain difficult for Somali and international forces to secure fully.
This month, the U.S. has increased its military operations in Somalia. The March 16 strike was one of four U.S. airstrikes in the country this month — two against ISIS‑Somalia and two against the al‑Shabaab insurgent group, which remains a persistent threat across southern and central Somalia.
The uptick in air operations comes as the U.S. also juggles military engagements in the Middle East, where tensions with Iran and ongoing counter-ISIS operations in Syria continue to demand attention.
Despite the complexity, U.S. officials say maintaining pressure on extremist groups in Somalia is crucial to regional stability and global security.
For Somali civilians living near conflict zones, the airstrikes are a stark reminder of the ongoing insecurity.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant but also welcomed the international support in combating extremist groups that threaten daily life and the country’s fragile governance.
