Tuesday May 27, 2025

Mogadishu (HOL) – The Somali National Army (SNA), in coordination with the Ma’awisley clan militia, is preparing for a large-scale military offensive to liberate Aden Yabaal district in the Middle Shabelle region, a strategic town currently under Al-Shabaab control.

Military sources report increased activity and movement around Aden Yabaal, as joint forces position themselves for what could be a decisive push against the al-Qaeda–linked terrorist group, which has held the district for several months.

The Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) and the Commander of the SNA Land Forces, Sahal Abdullahi Omar, are leading the coordination efforts between national and local forces.

“We visited our forces and the local Ma’awisley fighters during the early stages of this new offensive. Their dedication and sacrifice to defend Somalia are commendable,” said General Sahal.

He further called on the military officers and civilians to intensify their collaboration and maintain pressure on Al-Shabaab as the operation enters a critical phase.

Aden Yabaal has long been a key stronghold for Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle, serving as a launch point for attacks across central Somalia. Regaining control of the town would significantly weaken the group’s grip in the region and boost the morale of pro-government forces.

This latest campaign follows heightened anti-Al-Shabaab operations in Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Southwest, where the federal government and allied local militias have launched coordinated efforts to dismantle the group’s network.

Al-Shabaab, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the Somali government, the United Nations, and the United States, continues to carry out bombings, assassinations, and ambushes across Somalia despite sustained military pressure.