U.S. Special Operations Commander makes frontline visit in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The United States has yet again reaffirmed Somalia its support in the fight against Al-Shabaab, a group that has terrorized locals for almost two decades, inflicting pain and suffering on innocent civilians and members of the army.

For the last two decades, the US Africa Command has worked closely in assisting the Somali National Army (SNA) in unleashing against Al-Shabaab, securing many strategic locations in the process while dismembering the militants.

Colonel David Haskell, Special Operations Commander of the US Army, said the US shall not relent in the fight against Al-Shabaab, adding that the group’s influence is waning due to strategic cooperation between local forces and friendly partners.

"US government officials expressed strong support for the operation, reaffirming their commitment to assist Somali forces in their efforts to eliminate anti-Khawarij groups," the state media reports.

The high-ranking delegation led by Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhuddin, Commander of the Somali National Army, and Colonel David Haskell, Special Operations Commander of the US Army, spoke while visiting the Middle Shabelle region.

"This visit emphasizes the ongoing international cooperation aimed at enhancing security and stability in Somalia," the team further emphasized while asking security forces to stick together.

The delegation engaged in strategic discussions with local army officers, focusing on plans to eradicate Khawarij militants from the region. Major General Muhuddin emphasized the importance of preparedness and collaboration with local communities in the fight against terrorism, state media notes.

The United States Army trains the elite Danab commandos who are critical in the fight against Al-Shabaab militants. The group still controls large swathes of rural central and southern regions of the country, but the army has managed to liberate several strategic areas.

GAROWE ONLINE