Sunday June 8, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – Somali Minister of Defense Ahmed Macalin Fiqi says an intensified, nationwide military campaign is in motion to recapture all territory still under Al‑Shabaab control.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, the minister outlined a coordinated plan that will see Somali National Army (SNA) units fighting alongside allied community militias across Hirshabelle, Jubbaland and South‑West States.
“We have launched a concerted effort to clear the Khawarij from every remaining stronghold,” Fiqi said, using the government’s term for Al‑Shabaab. “Operations are already underway on multiple fronts, and additional forces are mobilizing to finish the job.”
Responding to reports that community militias in Hiiraan have faced heavy casualties in recent clashes, Fiqi stressed that federal support is ongoing.
“Hiiraan’s fighters are not alone. The SNA is present, the injured are receiving treatment, and the federal government continues to supply ammunition and heavy weapons. Their battlefield successes are clear and deserve recognition.”
Fiqi’s remarks follow the killing this week of Nur Abdi Rooble (Nuunuule), a senior Al‑Shabaab commander responsible for operations across Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, Mudug and Galgaduud. Somali forces say several other high‑ranking militants were eliminated in the same sweep.