Somali Army Launches “Operation Rolling Thunder” Against Al Shabab in Lower Shabelle

The Somali army, with AU and international support, launched “Operation Rolling Thunder” in Lower Shabelle to target Al Shabab, protect civilians, and secure key areas. Al Shabab has terrorized Somalia for over 16 years. The AU mission’s mandate was extended by the UN until December 2026.

The Somali National Army, working in close coordination with Ugandan troops deployed under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and supported by other international partners, has initiated a major military offensive in southern Somalia. This initiative, officially designated as “Operation Rolling Thunder,” is specifically aimed at dismantling the entrenched strongholds of the Al Shabab terrorist network, according to a statement released by Somalia’s Defence Ministry on Sunday.
The Defence Ministry outlined that the primary focus of this operation is the Lower Shabelle region, a strategic area where Al Shabab has maintained significant control. The Somali forces, together with their international allies, are actively working to disrupt the militant group’s ability to move freely along critical routes that are commonly used for orchestrating terrorist activities. By targeting these key positions, the operation seeks not only to weaken Al Shabab’s operational capabilities but also to dismantle its remaining infrastructure, which is used for planning and executing attacks against both government and civilian targets.
In addition to military objectives, the operation has a strong emphasis on civilian protection. The Defence Ministry highlighted that safeguarding local populations and securing essential agricultural and production areas are central components of Operation Rolling Thunder. Officials stressed that these measures are crucial for ensuring that communities in the Lower Shabelle region can live without the constant threat of violence and that economic activities can continue unhindered. The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to continue the operation until Al Shabab is “fully eradicated as a threat to peace, progress, and state-building in Somalia,” signaling a long-term and sustained effort to restore stability in the region.
Al Shabab has posed a persistent security threat in Somalia for more than 16 years, engaging in repeated acts of terrorism targeting government forces, public officials, and civilians alike. The group has maintained a pattern of violent attacks, including bombings, assassinations, and raids on towns and villages, undermining both governance and development efforts across the country. Since July of last year, Somali forces, bolstered by AUSSOM and other international partners, have significantly intensified their operations against Al Shabab, aiming to reclaim territories and limit the group’s capacity to conduct attacks.
The African Union Mission in Somalia has played a pivotal role in supporting the Somali army in these efforts. Its mandate was renewed by the United Nations Security Council in December, with a UK-backed resolution extending its authorization to continue operations until December 31, 2026. This extension underscores the international community’s ongoing commitment to assist Somalia in its fight against terrorism and to stabilize regions affected by militant activities. With the combined efforts of Somali forces, AUSSOM troops, and international partners, Operation Rolling Thunder represents a major push to eliminate Al Shabab’s influence and secure lasting peace and stability for the Somali people.