Somalia Al-Shabaab conflict and security landscape

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has maintained that Al-Shabaab is unable to reclaim control of Somalia, despite the group recently retaking territory in the Hiran region. While the militant group signed an agreement with the Hawadle clan in Mahas to implement Islamic law, the President asserted that government forces and international partners have successfully pushed the group away from the capital, Mogadishu.

As the military campaign continues, the President outlined a strategy focused on military operations, ideological challenges, and the disruption of the group’s financial resources. He characterized the group as weaker than in previous years, citing the death of senior leaders as evidence of its decline, even as the government acknowledged the loss of two districts.

In a broader security context, Mohamud warned foreign powers against using Somali territory for proxy wars or the establishment of military bases for strategic interests. He specifically addressed Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, suggesting the move was motivated by a desire for a naval base near the Red Sea. Furthermore, the President confirmed the termination of a defense and security agreement with the United Arab Emirates, labeling unauthorized activities by Abu Dhabi in Somalia as illegal.