US Reaffirms Staunch Military Support for Somalia in Fight Against Al-Shabaab and ISIS
The United States has firmly recommitted to supporting Somalia's ongoing war against the terrorist groups Al-Shabaab and ISIS, according to a statement following a high-level meeting in Mogadishu. The assurance was delivered by the new commander of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, during a formal visit with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Wednesday.
The meeting signals a continuation of the robust security partnership between the two nations, emphasizing a shared goal of dismantling terrorist networks in the Horn of Africa.
A Multi-Faceted Strategy of Support
During the discussions, General Anderson outlined AFRICOM's dedicated counter-terrorism strategy designed specifically to combat Al-Shabaab and ISIS. According to a report by Hiiraan Online, the commander confirmed that Washington is set to intensify its cooperation through a comprehensive support package that includes:
- Aerial Support: Continuing and potentially increasing drone and airstrikes against terrorist targets.
- Intelligence Sharing: Providing critical intelligence to aid Somali forces in their operations.
- Military Training: Enhancing the skills and operational readiness of the Somali National Army.
- Logistical and Advisory Support: Offering broader assistance to strengthen the overall capacity and effectiveness of Somalia's military institutions.
Broader Regional Security in Focus
The dialogue extended beyond Somalia's internal conflict to address the wider security landscape of the Horn of Africa. The leaders reportedly discussed the significant threats posed by militant groups operating across borders and acknowledged the urgent need for strong regional and international collaboration to effectively counter these challenges.
A Partnership of Gratitude and Commitment
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed his profound gratitude for the crucial partnership provided by AFRICOM, describing it as vital to Somalia's efforts to achieve lasting peace. He underscored his government's unwavering commitment to not only securing peace and stability within Somalia but also to strengthening international cooperation to ensure security throughout the region.
The reaffirmation of support from the new AFRICOM leadership comes at a critical time as Somali forces continue their offensive operations against entrenched extremist factions.
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