Airstrikes Target Al-Shabaab bases in central Somalia 

WARSHEEKH, Somalia — Airstrikes struck villages in the Warsheekh district of Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, targeting Al-Shabaab fighters who had recently infiltrated the area, local sources said.

The strikes were concentrated in the Jabad-godane area, which in recent days has been reportedly occupied by members of the militant group. Before the air campaign, government forces clashed with Al-Shabaab militants on the ground.

International partner aircraft later joined the operation, striking militant defenses and fortified positions, sources said.

Government and local forces have now reportedly surrounded Jabad-godane and are planning an operation to clear the area of insurgents. The number of casualties from the clashes and airstrikes has not yet been confirmed, and the situation remains tense.

The Middle Shabelle region, which borders the capital of Somalia, Mogadishu, has seen heightened military activity as government forces attempt to regain control over areas previously seized by Al-Shabaab.

Across the HirShabelle state, insecurity has increased in recent months, with Al-Shabaab reasserting control over territories that had been reclaimed.

GAROWE ONLINE