Mogadishu (HOL) — The United States’ abstention from a December UN Security Council resolution endorsing funding for the African Union’s mission in Somalia has cast a shadow over AUSSOM’s future, with fears mounting ahead of a critical vote in May to approve the mission’s financing. Source: Hiiraan Online

Waxaa jira warar isa soo taraya oo muujinaya in isbeddello waaweyn lagu wado qaab-dhismeedka talisyada ciidamada qalabka sida ee Soomaaliya. Wararkaasi waxay tilmaamayaan in Madaxweynaha Jamhuuriyadda Federaalka Soomaaliya uu qorsheynayo dib u habeyn ballaaran oo saameyn doonta talisyada kala duwan ee amniga, gaar ahaan ciidamada Xoogga Dalka, Booliska, iyo Hay’adda Sirdoonka iyo Nabadsugidda Qaranka (NISA). Wararka hoose laga helayo ilo wareedyo ku dhow dhow Villa Soomaaliya ayaa sheegaya in la qorsheynayo in dib loo soo celiyo jagadii Abaanduulaha Ciidanka Xoogga Dalka Soomaaliyeed, taasoo horey loogu bedelay qaab cusub oo aan rasmi ahayn iyadoo shaqadii Abaanduulka loo dhiibay Taliyaha Ciidanka Lugta. Haddii isbedelkan la hirgeliyo, wuxuu ka dhigan yahay in dib loo soo celinayo nidaamkii hore ee wax ku oolka ahaa ee hogaaminta iyo abaabulka ciidamada xoogga dalka. Jagadan abaanduulaha ayaa muhiim u ah isku dubbaridka howlaha ciidamada, qorsheynta dagaalka, iyo xiriirka ka dhexeeya hoggaanada ciidamada. Sidoo kale, isbedello ayaa la filayaa in lagu sameeyo taliska booliska gobolka Banaadir, iyadoo warar dhowr ah ay sheegayaan in taliye hore oo khibrad leh dib loogu soo celin doono xilkaas. Tani waxay la xiriirtaa xoojinta ammaanka caasimadda Muqdisho oo ay weli ka jiraan falal amni darro ah, sida Hoobiyeyaal maalmihii lasoo dhaafay ka dhacayay caasimadda. Mid kamid ah isbeddellada ugu saameynta badan ayaa lagu wadaa inuu gaaro hoggaanka NISA, hay’adda sirdoonka iyo nabadsugidda qaranka. Wararka waxa ay sheegayaan in ka dhici doono isbeddel ku saabsan hoggaanka. Saameyntan ayaa lagu micneeyay mid looga gol leeyahay in hay’adda NISA dib loogu habeynayo si ay u noqoto mid la jaanqaada xaaladda amni ee dalku marayo, loogana hortago falalka kooxaha argagixisada iyo faragelinta gudaha iyo dibadda ah. Isbedelka lagu wado qaab-dhismeedka ciidamada Soomaaliya, gaar ahaan ciidamada xoogga dalka, booliska gobolka Banaadir, iyo hay’adda NISA, wuxuu muujinayaa dadaalka Madaxweynaha iyo dowladda dhexe ee lagu xoojinayo amniga dalka. Source: goobjoog.com

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has opened a new service center in Mogadishu’s Boondheere District, advancing a national campaign to expand civil registration and improve access to government services. Source: Hiiraan Online

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When the devastating war in Sudan reached Sarah Williams' neighbourhood in the capital Khartoum, she and her children were caught in the crossfire. Source: Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — Puntland security forces say they have killed more than 40 ISIS fighters and seized a critical stronghold during a 24-hour offensive in Somalia's northeastern Bari region, describing the battle as a decisive moment in their campaign against the militant group. Source: Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — Opposition leaders in Puntland are urging a comprehensive political dialogue following the Somali federal government’s recent recognition of the SSC-Khaatumo administration. Source: Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — Heavily armed al-Shabaab militants have reappeared in rural areas outside Baidoa in Somalia's Bay region, warning farmers to stay away from their fields, residents said Saturday. Source: Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces came under heavy attack late Saturday when Al-Shabaab militants launched a coordinated assault on military positions in Elasha Biyaha, a key area southwest of Mogadishu. The fighting left multiple casualties, although the official death toll remains unconfirmed. Source: Hiiraan Online

Kumanaan qof ayaa isugu soo baxay waddooyinka guud ahaan Mareykanka maalintii Sabtida si ay uga mudaaharaadaan tallaabooyinkii ugu dambeeyay ee uu qaaday Madaxweynaha Mareykanka Donald Trump. Mudaaharaadyadan oo loo yaqaan “50501”, oo ah “50 mudaaharaad, 50 gobol, 1 dhaqdhaqaaq”, ayaa loo qorsheeyay in ay la jaanqaadaan sannad-guuradii 250-aad ee bilowgii Dagaalkii Xorriyadda ee Mareykanka. Meelo badan sida dibedda Aqalka Cad, xarumaha ganacsiga Tesla, iyo bartamaha magaalooyinka waa weyn, dadku waxay muujinayeen cabashooyin kala duwan. Qaar badan ayaa codsaday in dib loo soo celiyo Kilmar Ábrego García, oo si khaldan loogu tarxiilay El Salvador. Source

Garowe (HOL) — Puntland security forces have thwarted a major ISIS suicide bombing attempt in the Togga Miraale area, killing eight attackers and confirming that two others detonated their explosives before reaching their targets, officials said on Saturday. Source: Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission expanded voter registration to three additional districts in Mogadishu on Saturday, marking another step toward the country’s first one-person, one-vote elections in over five decades. Source: Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — A session of Somalia's Lower House of Parliament ended in chaos on Saturday after lawmakers clashed over the controversial removal of MP Dr. Abdullahi Hashi Abiib, whose seat was declared vacant last month due to repeated absences. Source: Hiiraan Online

Safiirka aan degganeyn ee Jamhuuriyadda Federaalka Soomaaliya ee dalka Mongolia, Marwo Hodan Osman Abdi, ayaa maanta si rasmi ah nuqul ka mid ah warqadaha aqoonsiga danjiranimo u gudbisay Agaasimaha Habmaamuuska ee Wasaaradda Arrimaha Dibadda Mongolia, Mudane Ts. Ankhbayar. Soomaaliya iyo Mongolia waxay xiriir diblomaasiyadeed yeesheen 28-kii Febraayo 1971, waxaana muddo ka badan 50 sano naga dhaxeeyay xiriir saaxiibtinimo iyo iskaashi ku dhisan ixtiraam, wada-shaqeyn iyo aragti mideysan oo ku aaddan nabadda iyo horumarka caalamka. Mongolia waa dal leh taariikh iyo dhaqan hodan ah, door muuqda na kaga jira arrimaha diblomaasiyadda caalamiga ah. Soomaaliya iyo Mongolia waxay si joogto ah uga wada shaqeeyaan arrimaha muhiimka ah ee caalamiga ah ee ay isku aragti ka yihiin iyada oo loo marayo madalaha caalamiga ah sida Qaramada Midoobay. Danjire Hodan ayaa sheegtay inay ku faraxsan tahay bilowga waajibaadkeeda cusub, ayna ka go’an tahay sii xoojinta xiriirka labada dal, kor u qaadista iskaashiga laba geesoodka ah, iyo in la ballaariyo fursadaha wada shaqeynta gaar ahaan dhinacyada ganacsiga, waxbarashada iyo isdhaafsiga dhaqanka. Dowladda Mongolia ayay uga mahadcelisay soo dhoweynta diirran iyo taageerada hagar la’aanta ah ee la siiyay. Source: goobjoog.com

Fannaanka Maxamed Siciid BK, oo hore u sheegay inuu fanka ka baxay ayaa qoraal uu soo dhigay bartiisa Facebook ku shaaciyay inuu fanka kusoo laabtay. “5 sanno ka dib, diyaar baan ahay. Dhawaan waxaan sii baahin doonaa labadii heesood ee ugu horeeyey kadib soo laabashadayda fanka.” Ayuu ku yiri qoraalka. Fannaanka oo aan la xiriirnay ayaa sheegay “in aanu imika diyaar u ahayn inuu faahfaahin ka bixiyo ku soo laabashadiisa fanka, balse wuxuu xusay in uu arrintaas ka hadlayo bisha May 18-keeda.” Balse wuxuu sheegay in heesuhu ay waddani yihiin, labo ka mid ahna 18 May ka hor la baahin doono. Qaran News

Amid an escalating trade war following United States (US) President Donald Trump’s announcement of trade tariffs, Pakistan is setting its sights on expanding trade with the East African Community (EAC) with new sea trade corridors. Source: Hiiraan Online

Several people are feared dead while others are nursing injuries following a tragic road accident early Saturday morning, April 19, along Thika Road. Source: Hiiraan Online

Raphinha scored a 98th-minute penalty as FC Barcelona came back from 3-1 down to win 4-3 at home to Celta Vigo and move seven points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Source: Hiiraan Online

Maxamuud Shiddo oo wareysi bixinaya Siyaasi Maxamuud Shiddo oo wareysi bixiyay ayaa calaamad su’aal saaray caafimaadka maskaxeed ee madaxweynaha Puntland, Siciid Deni oo ay mar saaxiibow dhaw ahaayeen, balse haatan ay siyaasadda ku kala irdhoobeen. Maxamuud Shiddo oo ku tilmaaman siyaasigii kursiga madaxweynnimo saaray Siciid Deni doorashadiisii kowaad ee sannadkii 2019 ayaa jawaab ka bixiyay su’aal ku saabsanayd saamayntii shakhsiyeed ee isagu ku lahaa talada iyo go’aan-qaadashada madaxweyne Deni ee mudda xileedkiisi hore. Siyaasi Shiddo oo ka falcelinayay hadal uu horay ujeediyay madaxweynaha Puntland oo ahaa in mudda xileedkiisi hore uu rag siyaasiyiin ah qol ugu xirnaa, islamarkaana wixii ay u sheegaan uu ku go’aan qaadan jiray ayaa hadalkaasi ku tilmaamay mid waxba kama jiraan ah shaki gelinaya caafimaadka maskaxeed ee Siciid Deni. “Madaxweyne Deni in uu yiraahdo qol baan ku xirnaan jiray, oo dad baa ii talin jiray, waa wax isaga shakhsiyaddiisa ku tiran oo fool-xumo ku ah in uu umadda u sheego, waxayna shaki gelinaysa miyirqabkiisa, waayo? Isagaa Puntland loo doortay oo loo dhaariyay” ayuu yiri Maxamuud Shiddo. Mudane Shiddo oo qeexaya dabeecadaha uu ku bartay madaxweyne Deni ayaa sidoo kale ku tilmaamay in aan wax dulqaad ah lahayn, oo aan aqbali karin dhaliilaha loo jeediyo, islamarkaana kaga jawaaba xarig iyo weerar, si uu isaga aamusiyo ciddii ka ra’yi duwan. PUNTLAND POST The post Siyaasi Maxamuud Shiddo oo shaki ka muujiyay Caafimaadka maskaxeed ee madaxweynaha Puntland appeared first on Puntland Post.

Dowladaha Mareykanka iyo Iran oo Wada-hadallo uga socdeen dalka Cumaan ayaa gaaray is afgarad hordhac ah oo bilow u ah heshiis dhammeystiran oo dhinacyadu ay dhowaan wada-gali doonaan, sida ay sheegtay wasaaradda arrimaha dibadda dalka Cumaan. Wasaaradda ayaa sheegtay in wada-hadallada labada dal ay u gudbeen heerkii labaad, islamarkaana dhowaan ay kala saxiixan doonaan heshiis gebi ahaanba meesha ka saaraya hubka Nuclear-ka ee ay sameysigiisa ku howlantahay Iran, islamarkaana dalkaas laga qaadi doono dhammaan cuna-qabataynnada saaran. Washington iyo Tehran ayaa u muuqda inay xaaladda dejinayaan ka dib sanado badan oo cadaawad iyo loolan ah, waxaana la filayaa in heshiis ay labadan dal wada-galaani uu wax weyn ka badeli doono xasilloonida gobolka aan deganayn ee Bariga Dhexe Source: goobjoog.com

https://qarannews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AQPqMZSWpRcjdw5IoMkkOpNHYeSJidv3VE2bV_h9ND2vtGDLaKvCHVelg8VI_EAyLGl51EbqXs9g107WwZH11ed5.mp4 Qaran News

MOGADISHU, Somalia—Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has convened an urgent meeting of the country’s top security and military commanders in Mogadishu, according to Caasimada Online sources. The meeting will address recent battlefield setbacks against Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab militants and overhaul the government’s counter-insurgency strategy. The high-level consultations at the presidential palace on Friday follow a series of military defeats and withdrawals by government forces, sparking concern over the momentum of the major offensive launched by Mohamud’s administration in mid-2022 aimed at eradicating the jihadist group. The commanders of the Somali National Army (SNA), police, intelligence, and prison services, as well as the national security advisor and other senior security officials, were summoned. SNA Commander General Odowa Yusuf Raage returned to the capital specifically for the critical talks from the front lines in the central HirShabelle region. His return follows the reported loss of control of the strategic district of Adan-Yabal in Middle Shabelle province to Al-Shabaab fighters on Wednesday, a significant blow to government efforts in the area located north of Mogadishu. Sources told Caasimada Online that President Mohamud was “very angry” about the recent reversals. The meeting is anticipated to result in “sensitive decisions” aimed at fundamentally changing the current military plan, which the sources described as having “followed the path of failure.” Mounting pressure after setbacks The loss of Adan-Yabal is viewed as a significant trigger for the urgent meeting, underscoring the operational challenges faced by government forces and allied clan militias despite initial gains in the offensive. The urgent summons comes amid what the source describes as an “unprecedented retreat” by national forces in recent months. Al-Shabaab has reportedly capitalized on these withdrawals, seizing territory with several “key areas” said to have reverted to the control of the jihadist group. The recent fighting has also reportedly resulted in significant government casualties, leaving currently liberated districts vulnerable and underscoring the perceived need for a rapid strategic shift. While government circles have previously discussed potentially declaring a state of emergency, it remains unclear if this specific measure will be on the agenda for Friday’s meeting. President Mohamud has been actively seeking advice from security experts to revamp front-line operations and tactics. A large-scale offensive is anticipated in the coming days in the Middle Shabelle region. This operation is expected to involve clan militias, with the powerful Abgaal clan heavily specifically reported as forming its “backbone.” Clan militias have been vital allies to the SNA in pushing Al-Shabaab out of various areas, particularly in central Somalia. President Mohamud recently acknowledged the fluctuating nature of the conflict, stating in a public speech days earlier that the government would take urgent steps in response to the situation. He added, “In a battlefield, expect anything, victory or defeat,” in what was seen as an attempt to contextualize the recent losses. Sources say that the President has reportedly been in direct telephone contact with lower-ranking military officers recently to understand the ground situation better and identify specific operational failings. General Odowa was reportedly among the senior officers with whom the President had regular contact before the urgent summons for Friday’s critical security meeting. The urgent meeting underscores Somalia’s critical juncture in its fight against Al-Shabaab. The outcome of the strategic review is expected to significantly shape the course of future counter-insurgency operations against the militants who have waged a long and deadly insurgency in the Horn of Africa nation.

Introduction: The Enemy Within Al-Shabaab’s enduring presence in Somalia transcends conventional military confrontations, rooted deeply in its insidious ability to permeate the very fabric of the Somali National Army (SNA). This infiltration is not a mere tactical advantage but a strategic cornerstone of the group’s resilience, providing a constant flow of intelligence, facilitating devastating insider attacks, and fundamentally undermining the efficacy of counterinsurgency operations. Understanding the intricate mechanisms, systemic vulnerabilities, and cyclical consequences of this internal threat is paramount to comprehending the protracted nature of Somalia’s conflict. This analysis explores into the complicated dimensions of al-Shabaab’s penetration within the SNA, scrutinizing the structural deficiencies that enable it and illustrating how this internal subversion fuels the group’s persistent resurgence, rendering military gains precariously temporary. The Mechanics of Infiltration: How Al-Shabaab Penetrates the SNA Al-Shabaab’s success in embedding itself within the SNA is a result of exploiting inherent weaknesses in the army’s recruitment, vetting, and operational security. This penetration is not a passive occurrence but an active and sophisticated strategy orchestrated by the group’s intelligence apparatus. A. Exploiting Weak Vetting and Recruitment The urgent imperative to establish a robust national army, often driven by external pressures and the exigencies of the conflict, has inadvertently created fertile ground for al-Shabaab infiltration. The rapid expansion of the SNA has frequently outpaced the development of rigorous vetting processes, leaving significant loopholes that the militant group expertly exploits. Inserting Defectors: A seemingly benign process of accepting surrendering militants has become a conduit for infiltration. The informal “guarantor” system, where individuals vouch for former fighters, often bypasses thorough deradicalization programs and security screenings. The February 2024 attack on an Emirati-run military base in Mogadishu by an operative fast-tracked into the SNA exemplifies the dire consequences of this lax vetting, highlighting how individuals with hostile intent can seamlessly integrate into sensitive security installations. Clan-Based Recruitment: The deeply entrenched clan dynamics within Somali society further complicate recruitment. Local politicians and Members of Parliament frequently exert influence to endorse recruits from their respective clans, often prioritizing kinship ties over security considerations. This practice inadvertently creates pathways for al-Shabaab sympathizers or even active members to enlist under the guise of clan affiliation, effectively circumventing any semblance of objective security assessment. Corruption in Enlistment: The specter of corruption further erodes the integrity of the recruitment process. Credible reports, including those from the United Nations, suggest that some commanders within the SNA accept bribes to enlist individuals, with little to no scrutiny of their backgrounds. This venality creates a direct avenue for al-Shabaab to plant operatives within the army ranks, effectively buying their way into the security apparatus. Furthermore, this corruption extends to the diversion of crucial resources, including weapons, from SNA armories to the militant group, further bolstering their capabilities. B. The “Amniyat” Intelligence Wing’s Role Al-Shabaab’s sophisticated intelligence unit, known as the Amniyat, plays a pivotal role in orchestrating and managing its infiltration efforts. This clandestine wing actively targets SNA soldiers for recruitment or strategically plants its own agents within the army to achieve specific operational objectives. Conducting Assassinations: The Amniyat utilizes its insider network to conduct targeted assassinations of high-ranking military and security officials who pose a significant threat to al-Shabaab’s operations. The alleged killing of Lieutenant Colonel Nur Farey in April 2025 serves as a stark reminder of the lethal effectiveness of these insider attacks, demonstrating the group’s ability to eliminate key personnel and sow fear within the SNA leadership. Leaking Operational Plans: Infiltrated agents within the SNA act as crucial intelligence assets, providing al-Shabaab with advance warning of planned military operations, troop movements, and logistical deployments. This preemptive intelligence allows the group to effectively plan ambushes, evade government forces, and launch counter-offensives with a significant tactical advantage. The success of al-Shabaab’s February 2025 Shabelle offensive was reportedly facilitated, in part, by prior intelligence gleaned from its embedded operatives within the SNA, highlighting the devastating impact of such information leaks. Sabotage Defenses: Insider agents also play a critical role in undermining the security of SNA bases and installations. These operatives can facilitate attacks by providing crucial information about security protocols, weak points in defenses, and even directly participating in assaults. The 2023 overrunning of the Cowsweyne outpost, which resulted in significant SNA casualties and a subsequent retreat, is a potential example of how insider facilitation can dramatically alter the outcome of engagements, demonstrating the vulnerability created by internal compromise. 2. Why Infiltration Works: Systemic Failures in the SNA The success of al-Shabaab’s infiltration strategy is not solely attributable to the group’s cunning but is deeply intertwined with the systemic weaknesses and institutional failures that plague the SNA. These vulnerabilities create an environment ripe for exploitation and perpetuate a cycle of insecurity. A. Institutional Neglect and Poor Conditions The operational effectiveness and morale of the SNA are severely hampered by persistent institutional neglect and the dire living and working conditions faced by many soldiers. Low Morale and Unpaid Salaries: A significant contributing factor to the SNA’s vulnerability is the chronic issue of delayed or unpaid salaries. Soldiers who are struggling to provide for their families are far more susceptible to bribery or coercion by al-Shabaab operatives, who can offer financial incentives or exploit their desperation. This economic precarity undermines loyalty and creates a fertile ground for compromise within the ranks. Lack of Counterintelligence: The SNA lacks robust and effective counterintelligence mechanisms to proactively identify and neutralize internal threats. The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), the primary agency responsible for national security, is often under-resourced, plagued by internal political divisions, and lacks the specialized training and capacity required to effectively penetrate and dismantle al-Shabaab’s internal networks within the military. B. Clan Divisions and Fragmented Loyalties The complex clan dynamics that permeate Somali society extend into the military, often undermining national cohesion and creating fragmented loyalties that al-Shabaab strategically exploits. Clan Militias vs. National Army: The SNA’s reliance on clan-based Ma’awisley militias as frontline fighters, while providing manpower, introduces a layer of complexity and potential instability. The primary loyalty of these militias often lies with their respective clan leaders rather than the central government or the national military command structure. Al-Shabaab adeptly exploits these existing clan networks, co-opting individuals and even entire factions through a combination of coercion, incentives, and shared clan interests, further blurring the lines between state and non-state actors. Political Interference: The recruitment process is frequently politicized, with federal and regional political leaders prioritizing the inclusion of individuals from their own clans to maintain local power balances. This political interference often overrides merit-based selection and rigorous security screenings, creating convenient avenues for al-Shabaab sympathizers or operatives to be integrated into the SNA under the patronage of influential figures. C. External Dependence and Sustainability Gaps The SNA’s heavy reliance on external funding and support, coupled with the ongoing withdrawal of international forces, creates significant sustainability gaps that al-Shabaab is poised to exploit. Donor-Funded but Unaccountable: Over 70% of Somalia’s national budget is reportedly financed by international donors. While this aid is crucial for maintaining the security sector, a lack of robust accountability mechanisms allows for significant corruption, with resources intended for troop welfare, training, and vetting being siphoned off. This mismanagement further exacerbates the issues of low morale and inadequate security protocols, indirectly contributing to the vulnerability of the SNA to infiltration. ATMIS Withdrawal Risks: The ongoing drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has created security vacuums that al-Shabaab is actively seeking to fill. The SNA, still heavily reliant on ATMIS for logistical support, airpower, and operational guidance, struggles to independently hold and secure recaptured territories. This dependence creates opportunities for al-Shabaab to re-infiltrate areas vacated by international forces, often leveraging its existing networks within the local SNA units. 3. The Consequences: How Infiltration Fuels Al-Shabaab’s Resurgence Al-Shabaab’s successful infiltration of the SNA has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond immediate tactical gains, significantly contributing to the group’s enduring resilience and the perpetuation of the conflict cycle. A. Tactical Advantages The presence of embedded operatives provides al-Shabaab with critical tactical advantages on the battlefield, enhancing the precision and impact of their attacks. Precision Attacks: Insider knowledge of SNA troop deployments, base layouts, and security protocols enables al-Shabaab to conduct highly precise and devastating attacks. The reported 2025 takeover of Bal’ad, where militants temporarily seized the town after alleged infiltrators within the local SNA units weakened defenses from within, exemplifies the disruptive potential of such insider facilitation. Weapons Diversion: Compromised SNA bases become a significant source of weaponry and ammunition for al-Shabaab. Infiltrated agents can facilitate the theft or handover of arms and supplies, directly sustaining the group’s insurgency. United Nations estimates suggest that a substantial portion, potentially up to 40%, of al-Shabaab’s arsenal originates from captured or diverted SNA and ATMIS stocks, highlighting the direct material benefit of their infiltration efforts. B. Psychological Warfare Beyond the tangible tactical advantages, al-Shabaab’s infiltration efforts have a profound psychological impact on the SNA and the broader Somali society. Eroding Trust: The constant threat of insider attacks breeds deep mistrust and suspicion within the SNA ranks. Soldiers become wary of their colleagues, undermining unit cohesion and operational effectiveness. This pervasive paranoia further weakens the army’s ability to function as a unified and reliable force. Propaganda Wins: Al-Shabaab strategically leverages its infiltration successes in its propaganda campaigns. Narratives of successfully embedding operatives within the heart of the state security apparatus bolster the group’s image as an omnipresent and formidable force. This psychological warfare can discourage potential defectors from the SNA and even attract new recruits to al-Shabaab, reinforcing its ranks. C. Strategic Resilience The ability to infiltrate the SNA is a key factor in al-Shabaab’s remarkable strategic resilience, allowing the group to adapt, regroup, and re-emerge even after suffering territorial losses. Cyclical Offensives: Even after military offensives result in the temporary liberation of territory, al-Shabaab’s established insider networks within the SNA and local communities allow them to re-infiltrate these cleared areas. This pattern of retreat and resurgence, exemplified by the reported 2025 Shabelle offensive, demonstrates the group’s capacity to leverage its internal connections to undermine long-term security gains. Governance Parallels: In regions where the SNA fails to establish a consistent and effective security presence, al-Shabaab’s shadow governance structures often fill the vacuum. Their embedded agents within local SNA units can subtly influence security dynamics, allowing al-Shabaab’s parallel administration to operate with relative impunity, further entrenching their influence and hindering the establishment of legitimate state authority. 4. Breaking the Cycle: Solutions and Challenges Addressing the deep-seated issue of al-Shabaab’s infiltration within the SNA requires a multifaceted approach that tackles both immediate vulnerabilities and long-term structural deficiencies. A. Immediate Reforms Implementing swift and decisive reforms within the SNA’s recruitment and security protocols is crucial to immediately mitigate the risk of infiltration. Overhaul Vetting: A comprehensive overhaul of the vetting process is paramount. This includes the implementation of mandatory biometric registration for all recruits to establish a verifiable identity and prevent the re-entry of former militants under false pretenses. Furthermore, a more rigorous and standardized Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program for surrendering fighters is essential, incorporating thorough background checks and genuine deradicalization efforts rather than relying solely on informal guarantor systems. Counterintelligence Units: The establishment of dedicated and well-resourced counterintelligence units within the SNA is critical to proactively identify, monitor, and neutralize internal threats. Drawing inspiration from successful models like Somaliland’s Human Intelligence (HUMINT)-driven approach, these units should be equipped with specialized training, advanced intelligence gathering capabilities, and the authority to conduct thorough internal investigations. B. Long-Term Structural Fixes Sustainable solutions require addressing the underlying structural issues that create the environment conducive to infiltration. Professionalize the SNA: Ending the practice of clan-based recruitment and implementing a merit-based system based on competence and professional qualifications is essential for building a truly national army. Standardizing training curricula across all units and ensuring the regular and timely payment of salaries are crucial steps in boosting morale, reducing vulnerability to corruption and coercion, and fostering a sense of national loyalty among soldiers. Local Governance: Military operations alone are insufficient to secure long-term stability. Pairing military offensives with the establishment of credible and effective local governance structures in liberated areas is vital to deny al-Shabaab the recruitment grounds and the operational space they exploit. This includes providing essential services, fostering economic opportunities, and building trust with local communities. C. International Role The international community has a significant role to play in supporting Somalia’s efforts to combat infiltration and build a more resilient security sector. Conditional Aid: Donor funding should be strategically tied to tangible progress in implementing anti-corruption measures and strengthening vetting protocols within the SNA. This conditionality can incentivize the Somali government to prioritize these critical reforms and ensure that international assistance is effectively utilized. Enhanced Surveillance: Expanding intelligence sharing and providing enhanced surveillance capabilities, such as U.S. and Turkish drone support, can assist in identifying and targeting al-Shabaab’s infiltration networks and disrupting their operational activities within the SNA. Conclusion: A War Within a War Al-Shabaab’s insidious infiltration of the Somali National Army represents not merely a security challenge but a profound symptom of Somalia’s deeper governance crisis. Without a concerted and sustained effort to address the pervasive corruption, deeply entrenched clan fragmentation, and chronic institutional neglect within the security sector, military gains against al-Shabaab will remain precariously fleeting. The group’s demonstrated ability to regenerate and adapt through its intricate network of embedded operatives ensures its longevity, effectively transforming Somalia’s conflict into a perpetual war waged not only on the battlefield but also within the very ranks of its national army. Breaking this vicious cycle demands a paradigm shift—a commitment to rebuilding the SNA not just as a fighting force, but as a trusted, cohesive, and nationally unified institution. Until this fundamental transformation occurs, al-Shabaab’s shadow within the army will continue to haunt Somalia’s future, undermining peace and perpetuating a seemingly endless cycle of violence. About the Author Prof. Abdinasir Ali Osman is a highly respected senior researcher, consultant, and trainer with over 35 years of experience in the humanitarian, development, and institutional capacity-building sectors. His career spans across the private, public, and non-profit sectors, where he has played a critical role in shaping policies, building institutions, and implementing large-scale programs in Somalia and beyond. As a leading expert in humanitarian, governance, peacebuilding, and development, Prof. Osman has dedicated his life to advancing local capacity, institutional resilience, and sustainable development. His work has influenced policy decisions, empowered young professionals, and strengthened governance frameworks in fragile and conflict-affected environments. You can reach him through email: ipi2024@hotmail.com

Aadan-yabaal (Caasimada Online) – Kooxda Al-Shabaab oo Arbacadii qabsatay degmada Aadan-yabaal ee gobolka Shabeellaha Dhexe ayaa halkaas ka geysatay dilal fool xun iyo tacadiyo kufsi iyo dhac isugu jira, iyagoo beegsaday dadkii shacabka ahaa ee la shaqey jiray ciidamada xoogga dalka. Ugu yaraan sideed qof oo shacab ah oo shan kamid ah ay dumar yihiin ayaa la sheegay inay gowraceen Al-Shabaab, kadib markii ay dumarka kufsadeen oo saacado badan heysteen, sidoo kalena ka dhaceen wax kasta oo ay heysteen. Dumarka iyo ragga la beegsaday ee ugu dambeyntii Al-Shabaab ay howraceen waa shacabkii ugu dhaqdhaqaaqa roonaa magaaladaas, kuwaas oo Aadan-yabaal ku lahaa maqaayado, goobaha Jaadka lagu iibiyo iyo ganacsiyo kale oo ciidamada muhiim u ahaa, sida goobaha dharka lagu dhaqo iyo geerishyada lagu cilad bixiyo gaadiidka. Dad xog ogaal ah oo si dhow ula socda musiibooyinka Shabaab ka geysanayaan degmada Aadan-Yabaal ayaa Caasimada Online u sheegay inay jiraan dad kale oo weli ku jira gacanta Al-Shabaab, kuwaas oo tacadi iyo ciqaab adduun ay heysato. Al-Shabaab ayaa la sheegay inay caro badan u qabeen dadka reer Aadan-yabaal oo si weyn u soo dhaweeyey ciidamada dowladda, shacabkii joogay magaaladaas ayey kula dhaqaaqeen aar-goosi toos ah, dumarka ay kufsadeen iyo kuwa ay dileen waxaa la sheegay inay ku jireen kuwo xaamilooyin ah. Xogta aan heleyno waxay intaas ku sii dareysaa inay jireen dad ku noolaa Aadan-yabaal oo si hoose ula shaqeynayey kooxda Al-Shabaab, kuwaas oo tiftifay ama far-muqay dadka la shaqey jiray ciidamada dowladda, intii ay joogeen degmada muhiimka ah ee Aadan-yabaal. Dadkii shacabka ahaa ayaa ka daba cararay ciidamada, halka intii hartay la dhibaateeyey, ku dhawaad 10 qof oo la yaqaan oo ganacsiyo kala duwan ku lahaa degmada Aadan-yabaal ayaa weli gacanta ugu jira kooxda Al-Shabaab, halka sideed kale ay gowrac dhinac kala mareen saacadihii lasoo dhaafay. Tacadiga waa lagu yaqaanay kooxda Al-Shabaab, balse gabood-fallada ay ka geysteen degmada Aadan-yabaal waxay meesha ka saareysaa balan-qaadkoodii been abuurka ahaa ee “Waan joojinay dilkii shacabka, nabad ayaan kula noolaaneynaa bulshada aan ugu tegeyno deegaanadooda,” inkastoo la ogaa in taasi aysan ka suurtageleyn kooxdaan arxanka daran, hadana midda ay ka geysteen Aadan-yabaal ayaa waano ugu filan qof kasta oo ku fekeray in Shabaab uu ka badbaadayo. Dadka lagu laayey Aadan-yabaal waxay ahaayeen xubno caan ah oo magaaladaas u dhashay, isla markaana aan isku ogeyn wax dakano ah, balse waxaa loo dilay “Maxaad ula macaamisheen dowladda?” taasi oo tacadi ku ah shacabka, kuna kalifeysa qof kasta in iskiis uu isaga difaaco cadowga Khawaarijta ah ee dalka ku soo duulay.

Muqdisho (Caasimada Online) – Madaxweynaha Soomaaliya Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud ayaa shir deg deg ah isugu yeeray dhamaan taliyaasha ciidamada qaranka, iyadoo la iska wareysa doono xaaladda guud ee wadanka iyo sidii wax looga bedeli lahaa dagaalka Al-Shabaab. Taliyaha Ciidanka Xoogga Dalka Jeneraal Odawaa ayaa shirkaas dartiis maanta u yimid Muqdisho, isagoo ka soo ka soo laabtay furimaha dagaalka ee HirShabeelle, halkaas oo uu kula sugnaa ciidankii ku soo jabay dagaalkii ay kooxda Al-Shabaab Arbacadii kula wareegtay degmada Aadan-yabaal. Taliyasha Booliska, Nabad Sugidda, Asluubta iyo masuuliyiinta kale ee amniga, sida la taliyaha amniga qaranka ayaa shirkaas looga yeeray, waxaana la filayaa in saacadaha soo socda la isugu yimaado xafiiska Madaxweynaha, si looga tashado xaaladda dalka. Guul darooyinka dagaalka ee dowladda soo wajahay ayuu Xasan Sheekh aad uga carooday, sida ilo wareegyo xog ogaal ah ay u sheegeen Caasimada Online, waxaa la filayaa inay baxaan go’aano xasaasi ah, si wax looga bedelo qorshaha dagaalka ee dhanka dowladda oo cagta saaray wadadii guul darrada. Ciidamada qaranka ayaa dhowrkii bilood ee lasoo dhaafay sameeyey dib u gurasho aan horay loo arag, waana arrinta miiska u saaran Xasan Sheekh in xiligaan uu wax ka bedelo, kooxda Al-Shabaab ayaa ku taameysa in weli dhul hor leh ay sii qabsato, maadaama meel kasta ay isaga cararayaan ciidamada dowladda. Toddobaadyadii lasoo dhaafay waxaa jiray warar sheegaya in dowladda Soomaaliya ay ka fekereyso in dalka la geliyo xaalad deg deg ah, balse lama oga waxa ka cusub qorshahaas iyo in Xasan Sheekh uu kala hadli doono saraakiisha ciidamada ee uu isugu yeeray. Soomaaliya ayaa gashay marxalad dagaal oo xasaasi ah, ciidamada ayaa wajahay guul darooyin waayeen, deegaano muhiim ah ayaa dib ugu laabtay xagmaha argagixisada Al-Shabaab, ciidamo badan ayaa dowladda uga dhintay dagaalka, waxaana halis ku jira degmooyinka hadda xorta ah, taas oo khasab ka dhigeysa in wax laga bedelo qorshaha dagaal ee dowladda. Sidoo kale, xogaha ay heleyso Caasimada Online waxay sheegayaan in Xasan Sheekh uu raadiyey khuburo dhanka ammaanka ah, si wax looga bedelo furimaha dagaalka, wax badan ayaa u suutagalay, waxaana maalmaha soo socda Sh/Dhexe ka bilaaban doona dagaal saf balaaran ah oo beesha Abgaal ay laf-dhabar u noqon doonto. Hadalkii ugu dambeeyey ee madaxweynaha Soomaaliya uu maalin ka hor ka jeediyey shir ka dhacay Muqdisho wuxuu ku sheegay in dowladdu ay tallaabooyin deg deg ah qaadi doonto, isagoo qiil u sameeyey jabka dowladda oo yiri “Goob dagaal wax walba ka filo, guul iyo guul daraba.” Xogtaan waxay intaas ku sii dareysaa in Xasan Sheekh uu maalmihii lasoo dhaafay qadadka taleefoonka kula hadlay saraakiisha hoose ee militeriga, si waxa socda iyo meesha ay wax ka qaldan yihiin uu u ogaado, Jeneraal Odowaa ayaa ka mid ah saraakiisha sare ee Madaxweynuhu uu sida joogtada ah ula hadlayey, kaas oo ugu dambeyn maanta soo galay Muqdisho, kana qeyb gelaya shirkaan xasaasiga ah.