U.S. Conducts Airstrike Against ISIS-Somalia in Golis Mountains and Delivers Military Equipment to Somali National Army in Middle Shabelle

SOMALIA - In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia operatives in the Golis Mountains on February 1.

The strike, authorized by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, resulted in the deaths of multiple operatives with no civilian casualties reported.

This operation continues efforts to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s capabilities amid ongoing threats in the region.

Separately, United States forces delivered military equipment, including heavy weaponry, to the Somali National Army in the Middle Shabelle region to bolster counter-terrorism operations.​

Airstrike Operation

U.S. Africa Command, working alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, executed an airstrike against ISIS-Somalia on February 1.

​The strike targeted operatives in the Golis Mountains, located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Bossaso in Puntland. Initial assessments confirm multiple ISIS-Somalia members were killed, with no harm to civilians.

The action aimed to diminish the group’s capacity to plan and execute attacks threatening U.S. interests, forces, and citizens abroad.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved the operation at President Trump’s direction. The Department of Defense emphasized that such strikes send a clear message of U.S. readiness to eliminate terrorist threats globally. Details on units and assets remain undisclosed for operational security reasons.

ISIS-Somalia maintains a presence in the Golis Mountains, using the area for bases, recruitment, and financing activities.

As an affiliate of the Islamic State network, the group contributes to instability through attacks and external operations planning. This strike follows similar actions in January 2026, indicating sustained pressure on ISIS positions in northeastern Somalia.

Military Equipment Delivery

United States forces provided military equipment and weapons, including heavy weaponry, to the Somali National Army in the Middle Shabelle region.

The Ministry of Defense of the Federal Republic of Somalia highlighted this as part of ongoing bilateral security cooperation. The support targets terrorist groups posing risks to regional stability and Somali citizens’ safety.

The Ministry of Defense and Somali National Armed Forces Command stated that such assistance leaves no hiding place for terrorists.

They committed to persistent counter-terrorism efforts until nationwide peace and stability are achieved. This delivery builds on historical U.S. aid, which has included training and logistics to enhance Somali forces’ effectiveness against insurgents.

Previous U.S. contributions have improved mobility and combat capabilities in central Somalia. The Middle Shabelle region remains a focal point for operations against al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia remnants.​

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