Geopolitical Briefing: Somalia
11 May 2025
- Somali forces, supported by local militias, repelled a major al-Shabaab offensive near the Hiiraan-Middle Shabelle border, resulting in significant militant casualties.
- U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against ISIS-Somalia on May 4, targeting insurgent positions in coordination with the Somali government.
- Somali pirates have reemerged in the Gulf of Aden, exploiting reduced naval patrols due to the Red Sea crisis and illegal fishing activities.
- The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) proposed increasing troop numbers to counter al-Shabaab’s recent gains.
- The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) launched the 2025 Media Awards to promote climate-focused journalism in the Horn of Africa.(Wikipedia, africom.mil, Horseed Media, Institute for the Study of War, IGAD)
On May 3, Somali National Army (SNA) forces, in collaboration with local militias, successfully repelled a significant al-Shabaab assault near the Hiiraan-Middle Shabelle border. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of approximately 50 al-Shabaab fighters. This victory underscores the effectiveness of indigenous security operations and the importance of local alliances in countering insurgent threats. Such developments contribute to Somalia’s efforts to stabilize security through indigenous forces and reduce reliance on foreign military support.(Wikipedia)
In a coordinated operation with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike against ISIS-Somalia on May 4. The strike targeted insurgent positions, aiming to disrupt the group’s operational capabilities. While this collaboration demonstrates international support for Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts, it also highlights the ongoing presence of foreign military actors within the country’s security framework. Balancing such partnerships with the goal of achieving greater control over national security remains a strategic consideration for Somalia.(africom.mil)
Recent reports indicate a resurgence of Somali piracy in the Gulf of Aden, attributed to diminished naval patrols amid the Red Sea crisis and increased illegal fishing activities by foreign vessels. The depletion of maritime resources has exacerbated economic hardships for coastal communities, leading some to return to piracy as a means of livelihood. This development underscores the necessity for Somalia to assert control over its maritime resources and strategic waters, ensuring economic prosperity and national sovereignty.(Telegraph)
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has proposed increasing its troop presence by 8,000 soldiers to counter al-Shabaab’s recent territorial gains. This surge would represent the largest AU deployment in Somalia since the conclusion of the AMISOM mission in 2022. While the augmentation aims to bolster security, it also raises questions about Somalia’s long-term objective of stabilizing security through indigenous forces and reducing dependency on external military interventions.(Institute for the Study of War)
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) launched the 2025 Media Awards to recognize excellence in climate-focused journalism across the Horn of Africa. This initiative seeks to elevate reporting that informs communities, influences policy, and fosters resilience amid the region’s climate challenges. Somalia’s active participation in such regional collaborations enhances its influence within IGAD and aligns with its strategic goal of regional integration and leadership.(IGAD)
