The U.S. has increased the number of airstrikes conducted in Somalia, with over 50 strikes documented in the past three months of 2026, according to a press release from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). The latest strike targeted Al-Shabab fighters in an area 80 Miles northwest of Kismayo. AFRICOM stated that this brings the total number of strikes this year to 49, a significant increase compared to previous years. The Command also emphasized its close cooperation with the Somali Federal Government and security forces in order to weaken Al-Shabab’s capabilities. However, AFRICOM did not disclose specific details about the planes and weapons used in the strikes, citing security concerns. This escalation of airstrikes follows a record-breaking year in 2025, when AFRICOM conducted 120 strikes, surpassing the previous record of 63 strikes in 2019. It is expected that the number of airstrikes will continue to increase in 2026. These airstrikes are primarily focused on northern Somalia, particularly the Golis Range Mountains where ISIS fighters are regularly targeted. Meanwhile, Al-Shabab continues to operate in parts of southern and central Somalia. U.S. troops have been stationed in Somalia for an extended period of time, providing training, advice, and intelligence support to local forces fighting extremist groups. The decision to escalate airstrikes was made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who granted AFRICOM the authority to determine when airstrikes should be carried out. This increase in airstrikes highlights the importance of Somalia in the U.S.’s fight against jihadist groups, but also raises concerns about potential security implications and the U.S.’s strategic interests in the Horn of Africa.
