On April 6 and 7, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) carried out the strikes in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia. The operation focused on ISIS-Somalia elements in the Golis Mountains, located roughly 55 to 75 kilometers (34 to 47 miles) southeast of the port city of Bossaso in northeastern Somalia.
AFRICOM stated that the goal of the operation was to weaken ISIS-Somalia’s capacity to plan and execute attacks that could threaten the U.S. homeland, American forces, and U.S. citizens abroad. Due to operational security concerns, the military did not release details on the specific units or equipment involved.
The Somali government has frequently partnered with U.S. forces in operations against extremist groups in the country, including al-Shabab and ISIS-Somalia. The Golis Mountains have long been recognized as a stronghold for ISIS-Somalia, which is primarily active in the semi-autonomous Puntland region.
No immediate information was available on casualties or damage resulting from the latest strikes.
