The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), in cooperation with the Federal Government of Somalia, conducted airstrikes in Somali waters, targeting a large unmarked vessel and a smaller vessel accompanying it.
According to a statement from AFRICOM, the vessels were carrying sophisticated weapons that were being smuggled into the country, for the Al-Shabaab group.
AFRICOM said the strike was a significant step in deterring the threat posed by Al-Shabaab and countering its attempts to develop military capabilities. “We targeted a sophisticated weapon for AS, which was a significant step in reducing the threat this group poses to regional security,” the statement said.
A preliminary assessment conducted after the operation indicated that there were no civilian casualties as a result of the strike, with AFRICOM noting that it took great care to protect the Somali civilian population.
Although the Federal Government of Somalia has not yet officially commented on the operation, Africom said the strike was carried out in a coordinated manner.
This operation is part of the security partnership between Somalia and the United States, which is aimed at strengthening the fight against Al-Shabaab, a terrorist organization officially designated by the United States and the United Nations.
About The Author
