Mogadishu, — The successive defeats inflicted on the Al-Shabaab militants at Ceeldheer, Bariirre, Sabiid, Caanoole and Wargaadhi have sent several important messages that warrant attention.
First, these operations demonstrated the National Army’s ability to both defend and conduct offensive operations — and to beat the Al-Shabaab militants at both. In places where Al-Shabaab launched attacks (Ceeldheer and Wargaadhi) they were badly repulsed; in Bariirre, Sabiid and Caanoole the National Army carried out offensive operations and shattered the militants’ defensive positions.
Second, the National Army has decisively refuted political narratives claiming that its forces had fallen apart or could not confront Al-Shabaab offensives. The Army overcame some of the most powerful, best-organized attacks and penetrated the militants’ hardened underground defenses.
Third, reports both at home and abroad that Al-Shabaab were on the verge of seizing the country are false. They suffered clear defeats in the recent assaults and in the stronghold positions they had relied on for concealment and mobility.
Fourth, the Army has learned tactics to counter the militants’ latest methods — such as vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) and post-blast follow-up assaults on military positions. Security forces have been able to detonate or neutralize explosive vehicles before they reached their targets, and on several occasions attackers were intercepted and killed before they could penetrate military encampments.
In sum: our country remains in a protracted fight against Al-Shabaab terrorists, and they continue to pose a real national threat. But over the past 15 years Al-Shabaab have steadily weakened while the National Army has grown stronger. That progress means we are firmly advancing along the path to finally eliminating this menace, God willing.
The clearest sign of change is the growing sense of security felt by people in Mogadishu, Kismaayo, Baydhabo, Jowhar, Marka, Dhuusamareeb, Gaalkacyo, Boosaaso and other towns where, until recently, Al-Shabaab regularly carried out bombings and killings. Those communities now enjoy respite from the constant fear that once gripped them.
Add to this the many battlefields where, only a few years ago, Al-Shabaab controlled territory — today that ground is either cleared or contested in ways that favor state forces.
All of this points toward the direction we are moving in: a Somalia free of Al-Shabaab militants, enjoying peace, stability and governance — God willing.
May God accept as martyrs those who gave their lives, grant swift recovery to the wounded, reward grieving families with the best replacement, protect those still in combat, and bless us with victory.
