Somalia, Egypt, Saudi to ink deal for new military coalition
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) disclosed on Thursday the annihilation of over 30 Al-Shabaab militants in the Lower Shabelle Region, marking a major offensive operation as the peacekeeping mission grapples with funding shortfalls.
The operation took place in the vicinity of the Bulunagaad Forward Operating Base and included air support, resulting in the death of more than 30 Al-Shabaab militants and injury of several others, according to a statement issued by the AU mission.
The Somali military (SNA), AUSSOM forces, and Ugandan personnel were among those who took part in the operation, which followed earlier attacks on SNA and AUSSOM troops against remnants of Al-Shabaab fighters dislodged from the coastal towns of Gendershe and the Jilib–Marka axis, according to the statement.
“The SNA and AUSSOM, working closely with partners, remain committed to protecting civilian lives, maintaining security, and ensuring the safe movement of humanitarian assistance and logistics supplies to local communities,” it reads.
The operation comes as the AU peacekeeping mission, which replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), grapples with chronic funding droughts. It also marks the first major offensive reported in Somalia following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland last month.
Reports indicate that Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is seeking military cooperation besides AUSSOM.
Bloomberg reported on Friday that Hassan Sheikh will travel to Saudi Arabia to finalize an agreement on a new military coalition with Somalia and Egypt as part of its bid to curtail the UAE’s influence in the region.
Reports also claim that Egypt plans on substantially growing its military presence in Somalia, in addition to troops already on the ground under AUSSOM.
