US Reaffirms Strong Military Support for Somalia's Fight Against Al-Shabaab and ISIS
Mogadishu, Somalia – In a significant affirmation of the strategic partnership between the United States and Somalia, the new commander of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, has pledged to continue and strengthen support for Somalia's ongoing battle against the terrorist groups Al-Shabaab and ISIS.
The assurance was made during a high-level meeting in Mogadishu on Wednesday with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The visit by the new AFRICOM chief underscores Washington's continued commitment to stability in the Horn of Africa and its dedication to dismantling terrorist networks that threaten regional and international security.
A Multi-Faceted Strategy to Counter Terrorism
During the meeting, General Anderson provided President Mohamud with a comprehensive overview of AFRICOM's refined counter-terrorism strategy. This robust plan is specifically tailored to degrade the operational capabilities of Al-Shabaab and ISIS affiliates in the region.
According to reports from Hiiraan Online, the U.S. commitment will translate into enhanced, tangible support across several key areas:
- Aerial Support: Continued precision air strikes to disrupt militant operations, target key leadership figures, and support Somali ground forces during engagements.
- Intelligence Sharing: A deeper intelligence-sharing framework to provide Somali forces with actionable information, enabling them to conduct more effective and proactive security operations.
- Advanced Military Training: Expansion of training programs aimed at building the capacity, professionalism, and combat readiness of the Somali National Army (SNA).
- Logistical and Advisory Support: Broader assistance to strengthen the institutional foundations of Somalia's security sector, ensuring long-term sustainability and effectiveness.
Addressing Regional Security and Transnational Threats
The discussions extended beyond Somalia's internal conflict, encompassing the broader security landscape of the Horn of Africa. Both leaders addressed the complex challenges posed by transnational militant groups that operate across borders, emphasizing that a coordinated, regional approach is essential to neutralize these threats effectively. The importance of robust collaboration among neighboring countries was highlighted as a cornerstone for achieving lasting peace and stability.
A Partnership Crucial for Peace
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering partnership of the United States and AFRICOM, describing it as a critical component of Somalia's efforts to restore peace and governance. He reiterated his administration's steadfast commitment to not only defeating terrorism within Somalia but also to fostering stability throughout the region.
The President emphasized that his government is dedicated to strengthening international cooperation and working closely with all partners to create a secure environment where development and prosperity can thrive. This high-level engagement signals a renewed momentum in the joint efforts to bring lasting security to Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.
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