US military confirms airstrike against ISIS in Somalia 

NAIROBI, Kenya - The US Africa Command has once again confirmed airstrikes against ISIS militants in Puntland, showcasing its commitment to eradicating the group, which had started spreading across eastern parts of northern Somalia.

The airstrike, conducted on May 31st, was done with proper knowledge of the US Africa Command and the federal government of Somalia, which still has yet to show full support to the northern state of Somalia, five months after the beginning of Operation Lightning.

"The airstrike occurred 75 km south of Bassaso, Somalia. ISIS-Somalia has proven both its will and capability to attack U.S. forces," the Command, whose headquarters are in Germany, said.

"AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad."

The statement further stated that 'specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security,' perhaps to allow due diligence to be done, as it is part of its tradition.

However, the regional government of Puntland had hinted that the airstrike left at least 15 militants dead in Cal-Miskaad mountains, which is the major hideout of the group in northern parts of the Horn of Africa nation.

"The Puntland Counter-Terrorism Operation Forces have taken control of Miiraale Valley, Calmiskaad mountains in a joint air and ground operation. At least 15 ISIS terrorists were killed. Wells, defenses, and major hideouts were seized. Operations are ongoing to secure the area."

GAROWE ONLINE