Barire (Dawan Africa) – United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed conducting a series of airstrikes on al-Shabaab militants in central Somalia between August 1st and 8th, 2025. The strikes took place in the vicinity of Barire, as part of a broader military operation aimed at weakening the group’s ability to launch attacks both within Somalia and against U.S. interests abroad.
In a statement issued on Monday, AFRICOM explained that the airstrikes supported a ground operation led by partner forces, including Somali government troops and Ugandan soldiers under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The operation, which culminated in the capture of Barire town on August 8, resulted in the death of over 100 al-Shabaab militants, with several others captured.
This coordinated effort highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities in Somalia, contributing to regional and international security efforts.
