Somali forces are advancing towards Elbur, a city located about 360 km north of the country’s capital, Mogadishu. The city has been under the control of the Al-Shabaab group for over 15 years, making it a key stronghold for the group. Fierce battles are said to be raging outside of Elbur town, with Somali military troops engaging in heavy shelling and infantry attacks in preparation for an imminent offensive. The situation in the city is described as “difficult” as the army pushes forward alongside local clan militia forces in their efforts to dislodge the Al-Shabaab militants.
This military operation is the second phase of an offensive that began in August 2022, with the aim of clearing Al-Shabaab fighters from multiple villages in Galgadud, Mudug, and Hiran provinces. As the army and its allies make military movements in several regions where Al-Shabaab still has a presence, people living in these areas continue to flee in search of safety and to adapt to life elsewhere. It is a difficult situation, compounded by the fact that Somalia is currently experiencing a drought and climate crisis.
The Somali National Army (SNA) has been actively working to rid the country of Al-Shabaab militants for years. The group has been responsible for numerous violent attacks and bombings against civilians, government officials, and foreign entities within Somalia. The continued efforts of the SNA, with support from African Union forces, international partners, and allied clan fighters, is aimed at restoring peace and stability to the country.
As the military push towards Elbur continues, the situation remains tense. The Somali government and its military partners have vowed to continue their efforts to rid the country of Al-Shabaab, and to work towards creating a more peaceful and stable Somalia.