Bosaso(Mogadishu24)-In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted a targeted airstrike on May 31, 2024, against ISIS militants in a remote area near Dhaardaar, approximately 81 km southeast of Bosaso.

The airstrike resulted in the deaths of three ISIS militants, with an initial assessment confirming no civilian casualties. U.S. Africa Command emphasized its commitment to preventing civilian harm, a critical aspect of its mission to promote a secure and stable Africa.

“Protecting innocent civilians remains a vital part of our operations,” stated a U.S. Africa Command statement. The command’s efforts are focused on degrading ISIS, a group responsible for numerous terrorist attacks globally, including in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. ISIS continues to pose a threat to U.S. homeland, personnel, interests, and regional partners.

The operation reflects U.S. Africa Command’s ongoing commitment to countering ISIS and preventing the group from planning and conducting attacks that disproportionately harm civilians. Somalia’s strategic importance in the security landscape of East Africa underscores the need for continued collaboration and action against terrorist threats.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, works alongside partners to counter malign actors and international threats, respond to crises, and strengthen security forces. These efforts aim to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity in East Africa and beyond.

The command will continue its mission of training, advising, and equipping partner forces in Somalia to further degrade ISIS and enhance regional security.