Somali Forces Seize Key Al-Shabaab Stronghold in Southern Somalia

Somali military forces have captured a strategic area in southern Somalia long used as a hideout by the Al-Shabaab terror group, the Defense Ministry announced Wednesday.

The operation targeted Hawaadley in Middle Shabelle as part of the recently launched Operation Badr, aimed at dismantling sites the al-Qaeda-linked militants use as bases and supply depots. Officials said the military successfully destroyed multiple Al-Shabaab positions and storage facilities.

Security forces continue to clear the area and pursue remaining insurgents, with the Defense Ministry vowing that counterterrorism efforts “will continue to intensify.”

Operation Badr is supported by international partners, including Ugandan troops serving under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Its precursor, Operation Rolling Thunder, was launched on March 1 to complement ongoing efforts against the insurgents.

Al-Shabaab has waged an insurgency against the Somali government for over 16 years, targeting security personnel, civilians, and government officials. Since last July, Somali forces, alongside AUSSOM and other international allies, have intensified operations against the group.

The UN Security Council renewed AUSSOM’s mandate in December, extending it through the end of 2026 under a UK-backed resolution.