In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia’s continued efforts to weaken al-Shabaab, U.S. forces conducted an airstrike in the vicinity of Huley, Lower Shabelle Region, Somalia, on March 12, 2019.
“Precision airstrikes like this remove al-Shabaab militants from the battlefield and support our partner’s efforts to increase pressure on the terrorist network,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. William West, U.S. Africa Command deputy director of operations. “The Federal Government of Somalia continues to eliminate al-Shabaab leadership, disrupt its communication efforts, and obstruct the group’s ability to terrorize the people of Somalia.”
This airstrike is one element of a larger strategy to support the Somali National Army (SNA) as it increases pressure on the terrorist network and its recruiting efforts in the region.
At this time, it is assessed this airstrike killed two terrorists.
Also, at this time, it is assessed no civilians were injured or killed in this airstrike.
U.S. Africa Command will continue to work with its partners to transfer the responsibility for long-term security in Somalia from AMISOM to the Federal Government of Somalia and its Member States. In support of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces will use all effective and appropriate methods to assist in the protection of the Somali people, including partnered military counter-terror operations with the Federal Government of Somalia, AMISOM and SNA forces.
