Operation Badr targets terrorist safe havens with support from African Union allies.

The Somali National Army has taken control of the Hawaadley area in Middle Shabelle, southern Somalia, previously used as a hideout for the Al Qaeda-linked Al Shabab terrorist group, the Somalia Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday.

The operation, named Operation Badr, aims to eliminate terrorist safe havens and continues to pursue remaining Al Shabab fighters while clearing areas recently reclaimed. Several terrorist positions and storage facilities were reportedly destroyed during the offensive.

The ministry highlighted that counterterrorism efforts will intensify. Operation Badr includes Operation Rolling Thunder, launched on March 1, and is supported by international allies, including Ugandan troops serving under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Al Shabab has carried out attacks against Somali security forces, officials, and civilians for over 16 years. Since July 2025, the Somali army, backed by AUSSOM and other partners, has increased operations against the group. The UN Security Council renewed AUSSOM’s mandate for another year in December through a UK-backed resolution, extending authorization until December 31.

Source: Newstimehub