Bari, Puntland – The Puntland regional government has announced that an airstrike conducted last night in Miraale, Bari region, killed at least 25 ISIS militants operating in the area.

A statement from Puntland’s Counter-Terrorism Operations confirmed:
“An airstrike in Miraale, in the Calmiskaad Mountains, eliminated 25 ISIS terrorists who were regrouping in the area.”

Puntland authorities confirmed that the airstrike was carried out by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) forces, which are assisting Puntland in its counterterrorism operations. The targeted site was reportedly a major gathering point for ISIS fighters.

Additionally, Puntland security forces launched a ground operation in the Kalriyaad, Saax, and Madaah areas of the Bari region, where three strategic water wells used by local communities are located. The forces reported destroying several ISIS hideouts in these areas.

This operation follows another major offensive two days ago, in which Puntland forces claimed full control of Sheebaab, previously described as ISIS’s primary base in the region.

Puntland has been engaged in a sustained military campaign against ISIS militants in Somalia, with recent operations inflicting heavy losses on the group. Since late December, Puntland security forces have been actively fighting ISIS in the Calmiskaad mountains, aiming to expel them from the region.