Saturday February 22, 2025

FILE – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (left) and Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni (right) are seen in military fatigues during separate visits to frontline positions. 

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has announced the formation of a special committee tasked with coordinating federal support for Puntland’s fight against ISIS, marking the strongest show of solidarity from Mogadishu in the regional state’s ongoing battle against the extremist group.

Speaking at the opening of the Somali Parliament’s latest session, Mohamud underscored the federal government’s responsibility to assist Puntland, ensuring that critical resources reach frontline areas where local security forces are engaged in fierce clashes with ISIS-affiliated militants.

“The Federal Government of Somalia stands with Puntland’s forces and its people who have taken up arms against ISIS,” Mohamud said. “This is a just war, and we will ensure Puntland receives the support it needs.”

Puntland has long been battling ISIS-affiliated fighters, particularly in the rugged mountains of the Bari region. While Al-Shabaab remains the dominant extremist force in Somalia, ISIS has expanded its footprint in Puntland, carrying out targeted assassinations and extortion campaigns.

Mohamud’s announcement follows a call from Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, who recently welcomed any external assistance in his administration’s efforts to eliminate the militant group. Security analysts say Puntland’s campaign against ISIS has largely been self-reliant, with limited federal involvement, making Mogadishu’s latest commitment a potentially significant shift in strategy.

The Somali government’s renewed focus on Puntland comes as militant groups continue to exploit governance gaps to entrench their presence. Analysts warn that without sustained efforts, ISIS could deepen its influence in Puntland, posing a broader threat to national stability.