The Somali National Army has launched large-scale military operations.
The Somali National Army has launched large-scale military operations aimed at liberating many regions from Al-Shabaab. Most of the fighting occurs in Galmudug, South West, Jubbaland, and Hirshabelle. However, the main areas experiencing the heaviest fighting are Bakool, Galgaduud, and Mudug. The Somali Army has shifted from its previous strategy, which involved capturing towns while Al-Shabaab remained outside in the rural areas.
Now, they have adopted a new approach of attacking Al-Shabaab in the rural territories where they have been hiding. Al-Shabaab has lost significant military strength, being driven out of many regions where they previously garnered fighters and support. The Somali government has also tightened control over the movement of people traveling to areas controlled by Al-Shabaab, conducting thorough searches of anyone suspected of joining or supporting the group. Economically, Al-Shabaab is weakening as the government has imposed strict sanctions and economic restrictions.
The Somali National Army, particularly the Air Force, has made significant progress, with the Air Force now deploying aircraft under their command. The Minister of Defense recently visited the frontlines to encourage the soldiers. Although Al-Shabaab continues to fight like gangs, sending small groups of 50 fighters to battle until they are defeated, the Somali Army is well-prepared for this war. They have been preparing for these operations for the past two years and have all the necessary equipment to succeed both in their bases and on the battlefield. The outcome of this conflict appears to be the weakening or elimination of Al-Shabaab.
