Geopolitical Briefing: Somalia
1 June 2025
- On 1 June, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia, 72 km south of Bosaso.
- Somalia's NISA Chief Sanbaloolshe called for a united front against al-Shabaab during a meeting with the Hiiraan diaspora on 25 May.
- Somalia commemorated Africa Day on 25 May, reaffirming its commitment to continental unity and justice.
- The U.S. announced cuts to aid and military support in Somalia, raising concerns about the fight against al-Shabaab.
- Evidence of growing collaboration between al-Shabaab and Yemen's Houthis is heightening risks to maritime traffic in the Red Sea. (Africom, Radio Dalsan, Wakaaladda Wararka Qaranka Soomaaliyeed, The Washington Post, Africa Center)
On 1 June 2025, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia, 72 km south of Bosaso. This operation, coordinated with the Federal Government of Somalia, aimed to degrade ISIS-Somalia's ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, forces, and citizens abroad. The strike underscores the ongoing collaboration between Somali and U.S. forces in counterterrorism efforts. Such operations enhance Somalia's control over its internal security by targeting extremist groups operating within its borders.(Africom)
On 25 May 2025, Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Chief, General Cabdullaahi Maxamed Cali Sanbaloolshe, held a virtual meeting with members of the Hiiraan diaspora to discuss ongoing counterterrorism efforts and emphasize the urgent need for national unity in the fight against al-Shabaab insurgents. The meeting included prominent members of the diaspora community, Somali government officials, parliamentarians, ministers, and frontline commanders engaged in active combat operations against al-Shabaab militants. This engagement reflects Somalia's efforts to integrate its diaspora into national security strategies, fostering a cohesive approach to combating insurgency and enhancing political autonomy from foreign influences.(Radio Dalsan)
Somalia commemorated Africa Day on 25 May 2025, reaffirming its commitment to continental unity and justice. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation held an official ceremony in Mogadishu, marking the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963. Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali emphasized the significance of the day, noting it as a symbol of African solidarity and the enduring vision of unity. He affirmed Somalia’s unwavering dedication to the African agenda, stating that continental priorities are central to Somalia’s foreign policy. This observance highlights Somalia's efforts to deepen integration with other Muslim-majority African nations, aligning its foreign policy with broader regional objectives.(Wakaaladda Wararka Qaranka Soomaaliyeed)
Recent U.S. policy shifts under President Donald Trump, including cuts to aid and military support in Somalia, are jeopardizing efforts against the extremist group al-Shabaab. The Somali National Army’s elite Danab unit—U.S.-trained and central to counterterrorism—has seen morale plummet following the suspension of stipends and supply aid amid corruption concerns. Turkey is increasingly filling the vacuum, deepening its strategic presence through military support and substantial contracts, including drone deliveries and oil exploration. However, Turkish airstrikes have caused civilian casualties, risking backlash and boosting al-Shabaab's propaganda. This shift indicates a realignment of Somalia's security partnerships, potentially enhancing its independence over internal security by diversifying foreign military support.(The Washington Post)
Evidence of growing collaboration between al-Shabaab in Somalia and Yemen's Houthis is heightening risks to maritime traffic in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Western Indian Ocean. This alliance enables both militant groups to strengthen their disruptive capacities, posing heightened threats to regional security. The collaboration underscores the transnational nature of extremist threats facing Somalia, necessitating robust maritime security measures and regional cooperation to safeguard strategic waterways. Addressing these challenges is crucial for Somalia's control over maritime resources and strategic waters, as well as its broader regional influence via the Horn of Africa.(Africa Center)
