US defends its airstrikes in Somalia that targeted Al Shabaab group

United States has dismissed allegations that its airstrikes in Mudug region in northern Somalia, on Wednesday, have targeted Somali government forces, contrary to Galmudug official’s statement that the airstrikes had targeted their forces.

Somali officials told media that U.S. has carried out military airstrikes against its forces stationed near Galkayo city, killing 22 soldiers and wounding 16 others.

Galmudug’s Security Minister said that U.S. military forces were misinformed by neighboring Puntland and requested air support on the pretext that out troops were Al Shabaab militants group.

However, U.S. Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis told reporters that the United States had carried out a "self-defence air strike" after Somali troops took fire from fighters as they tried to stop an improvised explosive device making network.

Puntland government officials didn’t release a statement in relation to the accusation made by neighboring rival Galmudug, which its troops took part in the military operation.

Puntland and Galmudug administrations, had strained relations lately due to frequent clashes over contested territory in Mudug region, as recent clashes between two regions have resulted in the death of 30 people and forced 40,000 people to flee out of Galkayo city.

Somalia has been trying to rebuild since the collapse of its central government in 1991, which plunged the country into riven clan rivalries and struggling with an insurgency.

GAROWEONLINE