JILIB ( Halbeeg News) – US military has said its forces killed an al-Shabaab fighter in an airstrike in Southern Somalia.
In a statement, US military mission in Africa said U.S. forces conducted an airstrike in the vicinity of Jilib, Middle Juba Region.
The attack which took place on 9th April was aimed at weakening al-Shabaab.
According to the statement, Airstrikes highlight the U.S. and Somali forces committed to a strategy that supports the Federal Government of Somalia and its ability to advance economic development, governance, and their military institutions.
“Continued pressure on the al-Shabaab network is critical to progress,” the statement reads in part.
U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Gregg Olson, U.S. Africa Command director of operations said in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia’s continued efforts to weaken al-Shabaab, the US targeted the group.
He noted that airstrikes are conducted in compliance with the law of armed conflict.
“Our assistance complements the Federal Government of Somalia’s efforts to create stability and a better future for the Somali people. At this time, it is assessed this airstrike killed one (1) terrorist,” he said.
The military said the bombardment did not cause collateral damage.
“Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike. When warranted, processes and procedures exist that allow for additional information to inform post-strike analysis,” he confirmed.
U.S. Africa Command vowed it would continue to work with its partners to transfer the responsibility for long-term security in Somalia from AMISOM to the Federal Government of Somalia.
Discussion about this post