Over 39 Terrorists Killed in Somalia

The Somali government announced yesterday the death of more than 39 members of the terrorist movement "Al-Shabaab," linked to the Al-Qaeda organization, in a military operation planned in the Lower Shabelle province, south of Somalia.

The Ministry of Information stated in a release that the military operation, conducted by the National Army in collaboration with international partners, took place in the Lower Shabelle province, as reported by the Somali National News Agency (SONNA).

The army initiated the operation following intelligence about the gathering of militia members in the areas, planning terrorist attacks targeting civilians.

The military operation in the Baladuska area resulted in the killing of 24 terrorists. Additionally, the agency reported that 15 militants were killed in an airstrike in the Baghdad area.

Somali political analyst Dr. Yassin Said noted that while progress has been made in combating terrorism and liberating some areas from Al-Shabaab control, the movement still poses a security threat. He emphasized the need for continuous efforts to combat it.

Yassin highlighted Somalia's formal membership in the East African Community as a significant step towards achieving stability and security in the country.

However, he stressed the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance economic and security capacities and regional cooperation to address the ongoing challenges posed by Al-Shabaab.

In February, the Somali Parliament officially approved Mogadishu's membership in the East African Community, making it the eighth member alongside Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Somali political analyst emphasized that Somalia's membership in the East African Community enhances security cooperation with regional countries, facilitates information and expertise exchange in counterterrorism efforts, and increases pressure on Al-Shabaab.

This reduces its capacity to carry out attacks, enhances regional security, stability, and counterterrorism efforts.

Furthermore, he mentioned the economic benefits, such as increased foreign investments and investor confidence, which stimulate growth and boost regional trade with member countries, opening up new avenues for trade exchange.

Additionally, the community provides financial and technical support to Somalia for reconstruction efforts and infrastructure development, enhancing the country's competitiveness.

Egyptian-African Council Vice President Ambassador Salah Halima emphasized Somalia's strategic importance due to its geographic location on the Red Sea, making it an integral part of Arab and African national security.

Ambassador Halima stressed the importance of cooperation in combating terrorism and achieving security and stability in countries facing security challenges. 

He pointed out Somalia's rich natural resources and strategic commodities, such as gas, uranium, and oil, which remain untapped, presenting opportunities for economic development and regional cooperation.