Jihadists from the Islamic State (IS) group have established a stronghold in Somalia’s Puntland region, operating largely undisturbed across a vast mountainous area after setbacks in Iraq and Syria and using it as a base for wider operations in Africa and beyond. Local authorities have launched a major offensive, driving fighters from villages into cave positions amid ongoing clashes and mounting casualties, in a campaign officials say is crucial to restoring stability in Somalia and countering a broader global security threat. A report by Bastien Renouil, Will Swanson and ARTE.Â
The semi-autonomous Puntland government launched a major offensive to eliminate the group. Within months, its forces drove IS group fighters out of occupied villages, forcing them to take refuge in caves. Daily clashes continue, with casualties mounting on both sides.
Despite the ongoing violence, the army is making progress and hopes to defeat the IS group soon. The battle is crucial not only for Somalia’s stability but also for global security.