An attack in Lower Juba on June 19 in Somalia led to the death of 43 al-Shabaab fighters, including two high-level commanders. The attack was conducted by the Somali National Army (SNA) and is suspected to have partnered with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) whose missiles are often responsible for drone attacks in the al-Shabaab region.

The President of Somalia released a statement earlier this year saying, “We have more experience than when we first entered the war in Galmudug and Hirshabelle states. We’ve learned the tactics of al-Shabaab. Our morale tells us that we are capable of defeating them. The government’s current policy is to liberate the country from Al Shabab.”

Marine Corps General Michael Langley, who is also the head of AFRICOM, visited Mogadishu to meet President Hassan Sheik Mohamud of Somalia, Somali defense and state department leadership, and ATMIS troops earlier in June. With the aim of establishing goals and operatives for moving forward in the conflict, the increased presence of U.S. troops following Langley’s visit demonstrates the Biden Administration’s dedication to this conflict in contrast to the previous administration’s withdrawal from the region.

Source: persecution.org