Airstrikes near Baidoa, Somalia, spark allegations of civilian casualties

Reports of airstrikes on the outskirts of Baidoa, Somalia, have led to allegations of civilian casualties and increased political tension. South West State security minister Isaaq Mohamed Korsaar had previously warned civilians to avoid areas held by al-Shabaab or forces loyal to former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, stating the administration would target those locations from the air.

Critics of the Somali federal government have accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Turkey of conducting indiscriminate attacks against civilians in the region. While casualties were reported following aircraft strikes on Saturday night, neither the Somali federal government nor Turkish authorities have officially confirmed the raids or provided a death toll.

The incident follows recent unrest in the region, including an explosion in Doolow that Jubaland authorities attributed to Turkish drones. The Somali federal government has previously rejected claims of involvement in such incidents, suggesting instead that explosions may have been caused by explosives being prepared internally.