KISMAYO, December 16, 2025 (Somalia Tribune) – The United States military conducted an airstrike against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab on December 14, targeting fighters about 50 kilometres northeast of Kismayo, the interim capital of Somalia’s Jubaland state. The operation was carried out in close coordination with the Somali government.
In a statement, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the strike is part of ongoing joint operations with the Somali National Army aimed at degrading Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities. AFRICOM emphasized that the operation helps reduce the threat posed by the group to the United States, its personnel, and Somali civilians. Specific details of the airstrike were withheld for operational security.
The targeted area is in Lower Juba, where Al-Shabaab maintains a strong presence despite continued military pressure from Somali forces supported by international partners.
Al-Shabaab, linked to Al-Qaeda, has waged a deadly insurgency in Somalia for over a decade, regularly attacking government officials, security forces, and civilians. In recent years, the United States has intensified air operations to support Somalia’s campaign against the militants.
