In a recent social media statement, Donald Trump disclosed that he directed airstrikes against senior Islamic State (IS) operatives in Somalia. The operation was aimed at a prominent attack planner and other affiliated members of the terrorist organization. Trump asserted that these individuals were "hiding in caves" and posed a serious threat to both the United States and its allies. He went on to claim that the strikes effectively neutralized the threat without impacting civilians.
Trump Orders Airstrikes on Islamic State Targets in Somalia
Trump Orders Airstrikes on Islamic State Targets in Somalia
In a bold move, former President Donald Trump announces targeted military action against ISIS in Somalia, aiming to eliminate key operatives.
Trump did not specify the identities of the individuals targeted in the airstrikes. He strongly conveyed a message to ISIS and similar threats, stating, "WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!" Following Trump's announcement, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth provided an assessment, confirming that "multiple operatives" were believed to have been killed in the airstrikes without any civilian casualties.
Hegseth emphasized that these actions serve to "further degrade" IS's operational capabilities and reaffirm the U.S.'s commitment to combating terrorism. The Islamic State gained global notoriety in the 2010s, especially in the contexts of Syria and Iraq, but its activities have significantly dwindled and are now predominantly concentrated in parts of Africa. The ISIS branch in Somalia originated in 2015, stemming from members who defected from the more established al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab group. Operating primarily through extortion and minor attacks, they remain a sporadic threat in the region, according to assessments by the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Hegseth emphasized that these actions serve to "further degrade" IS's operational capabilities and reaffirm the U.S.'s commitment to combating terrorism. The Islamic State gained global notoriety in the 2010s, especially in the contexts of Syria and Iraq, but its activities have significantly dwindled and are now predominantly concentrated in parts of Africa. The ISIS branch in Somalia originated in 2015, stemming from members who defected from the more established al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab group. Operating primarily through extortion and minor attacks, they remain a sporadic threat in the region, according to assessments by the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
