Somalia has opened the country's first public oxygen plant as the Horn of Africa nation with one of the world's weakest health systems combats COVID-19. It is expected to produce 1,000 cylinders of oxygen a week.

Somalia opens first public oxygen plant

Somalia hosted its first screening of a movie in three decades under heavy security on Wednesday, as the conflict-ravaged country hopes for a cultural renewal.

Built by Chinese engineers as a gift from Mao Zedong in 1967, the National Theatre of Somalia has a history that reflects the tumultuous journey of the Horn of Africa nation.

It has been targeted by suicide bombers and used as a base by warlords.&nbsp;

And it has never screened a Somali film. Until now.

"This is going to be a historic night for the Somali people, it shows how hopes have been revived... after so many years of challenges," theatre director Abdikadir Abdi Yusuf said before the screening. &nbsp;

"It's a platform that provides an opportunity to... Somali songwriters, storytellers, movie directors and actors to present their talent openly."

The evening's programme was two short films by Somali director IBrahim CM -- "Hoos" and "Date from Hell" -- with tickets sold for $10 (8.50 euros) each, expensive for many.

Although Mogadishu was home to many cinema halls during its cultural heyday, with the national theatre also hosting live concerts and plays, the seaside capital fell silent after civil war erupted in 1991.

Warlords used the theatre as a military base and the building fell into disrepair. It reopened in 2012, but was blown up by Al-Shabaab jihadists two weeks later.

The Al-Qaeda linked Islamist group launches regular attacks in Mogadishu and considers entertainment evil.

- Happier times -

After a painstaking restoration, the authorities announced plans to hold the theatre's first screening this week.

For many Somalis, it was a trip down memory lane and a reminder of happier times.

"I used to watch concerts, dramas, pop shows, folk dances and movies in the national theatre during the good old days," said Osman Yusuf Osman, a self-confessed film buff.

"It makes me feel bad when I see Mogadishu lacking the nightlife it once had. But this is a good start," he told AFP.

Others were more circumspect, and worried about safety.

"I was a school-age girl when my friends and I used to watch live concerts and dramas at the national theatre," said a mother-of-six, Hakimo Mohamed.&nbsp;

"People used to go out during the night and stay back late if they wished -- but now, I don't think it is so safe," she told AFP.

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The jihadists were driven out of Mogadishu a decade ago, but retain control of swathes of countryside.

Attendees had to pass through several security checkpoints before arriving at the theatre, inside a heavily guarded complex that includes the presidential palace and the parliament.

But for some, the inconvenience and the risks paled in comparison to the anticipation of seeing a film in a cinema after such a long wait.

"I was not lucky to watch live concerts and or movies in the theatre (earlier)... because I was still a child, but I can imagine how beautiful it was," NGO employee Abdullahi Adan said.

"I want to experience this for the first time and see what it's like to watch a movie with hundreds of people in a theatre."

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Somalia hosted its first screening of a movie in three decades under heavy security on Wednesday, as the conflict-ravaged country hopes for a cultural renewal. Built by Chinese engineers as a gift from Mao Zedong in 1967, the National Theatre of Somalia has a history that reflects the tumultuous journey of the Horn of Africa nation.

Somalia hosted its first screening of a movie in three decades under heavy security on Wednesday, as the conflict-ravaged country hopes for a cultural renewal. Built by Chinese engineers as a gift from Mao Zedong in 1967, the National Theatre of Somalia has a history that reflects the tumultuous journey of the Horn of Africa nation. It has been targeted by suicide bombers and used as a base by warlords. And it has never screened a Somali film. Until now. "This is going to be a historic night for the Somali people, it shows how hopes have been revived... after so many years of challenges," theatre director Abdikadir Abdi Yusuf said before the screening. "It's a platform that provides an opportunity to... Somali songwriters, storytellers, movie directors and actors to present their talent openly." The evening's programme was two short films by Somali director IBrahim CM -- "Hoos" and "Date from Hell" -- with tickets sold for $10 (8.50 euros) each, expensive for many. Although Mogadishu was home to many cinema halls during its cultural heyday, with the national theatre also hosting live concerts and plays, the seaside capital fell silent after civil war erupted in 1991. Warlords used the theatre as a military base and the building fell into disrepair. It reopened in 2012, but was blown up by Al-Shabaab jihadists two weeks later. The Al-Qaeda linked Islamist group launches regular attacks in Mogadishu and considers entertainment evil. - Happier times - After a painstaking restoration, the authorities announced plans to hold the theatre's first screening this week. For many Somalis, it was a trip down memory lane and a reminder of happier times. "I used to watch concerts, dramas, pop shows, folk dances and movies in the national theatre during the good old days," said Osman Yusuf Osman, a self-confessed film buff. "It makes me feel bad when I see Mogadishu lacking the nightlife it once had. But this is a good start," he told AFP. Others were more circumspect, and worried about safety. "I was a school-age girl when my friends and I used to watch live concerts and dramas at the national theatre," said a mother-of-six, Hakimo Mohamed. "People used to go out during the night and stay back late if they wished -- but now, I don't think it is so safe," she told AFP. Billie Eilish, BTS, Elton John in concert for climate action, vaccines Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie now fight over their French wedding venue The jihadists were driven out of Mogadishu a decade ago, but retain control of swathes of countryside. Attendees had to pass through several security checkpoints before arriving at the theatre, inside a heavily guarded complex that includes the presidential palace and the parliament. But for some, the inconvenience and the risks paled in comparison to the anticipation of seeing a film in a cinema after such a long wait. "I was not lucky to watch live concerts and or movies in the theatre (earlier)... because I was still a child, but I can imagine how beautiful it was," NGO employee Abdullahi Adan said. "I want to experience this for the first time and see what it's like to watch a movie with hundreds of people in a theatre." Netflix CEO meets up with I&B minister Anurag Thakur, gets Bhagvad Gita as gift

'Historic night' as Somalia screens first film in 30 years

Al Shabaab militants on Tuesday launched a surprise attack on a military base in Somalia and managed to recapture&nbsp;the central town which was earlier lost to the government, local media quoting eyewitnesses said.

Al Shabaab is a religiously-motivated violent extremist organisation based in Somalia. The group is an officially recognised affiliate of Al-Qaeda which promotes sectarian violence against those who do not agree with its extreme religious interpretation.

According to the residents of Amara in the Galmudug region, the morning assault started with a suicide bomb attack, targeting government special force units—Danab and Darawish.

“Al Shabaab militants have launched an attack on a government base in the town of Amara this morning. The government forces, especially the Danab and the Darawish of Galmudug, withdrew from the area and al Shabaab took control of the area,” Farah Osman, a resident of Amara, told Reuters.

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The Somali Army and Darawish forces responded with airstrikes and succeeded in killing “several” combatants of al Shabaab forces, according to the state media which did not provide details on the casualties or the status of the military base or town.

Amara is a strategic town which lies on the route to the coastal town of Harardheere, another al Shabaab stronghold. Harardheere was once a pirate base at the peak of hijackings of merchant ships in 2011

Al‑Shabaab’s primary objective is the establishment of an Islamist state in the Horn of Africa based on Sharia law and the elimination of secular and foreign influence, including through violent means.

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

Al Shabaab militants on Tuesday launched a surprise attack on a military base in Somalia and managed to recapture the central town which was earlier lost to the government, local media quoting eyewitnesses said.

Al Shabaab militants on Tuesday launched a surprise attack on a military base in Somalia and managed to recapture the central town which was earlier lost to the government, local media quoting eyewitnesses said. Al Shabaab is a religiously-motivated violent extremist organisation based in Somalia. The group is an officially recognised affiliate of Al-Qaeda which promotes sectarian violence against those who do not agree with its extreme religious interpretation. According to the residents of Amara in the Galmudug region, the morning assault started with a suicide bomb attack, targeting government special force units—Danab and Darawish. “Al Shabaab militants have launched an attack on a government base in the town of Amara this morning. The government forces, especially the Danab and the Darawish of Galmudug, withdrew from the area and al Shabaab took control of the area,” Farah Osman, a resident of Amara, told Reuters. Also read | US launches second air strike in a week targeting Al-Shabaab in Somalia The Somali Army and Darawish forces responded with airstrikes and succeeded in killing “several” combatants of al Shabaab forces, according to the state media which did not provide details on the casualties or the status of the military base or town. Amara is a strategic town which lies on the route to the coastal town of Harardheere, another al Shabaab stronghold. Harardheere was once a pirate base at the peak of hijackings of merchant ships in 2011 Al‑Shabaab’s primary objective is the establishment of an Islamist state in the Horn of Africa based on Sharia law and the elimination of secular and foreign influence, including through violent means. (With inputs from agencies)

Al Shabaab militants attack military base, recapture Somalian town from govt forces

Somalia has postponed elections that were due to start on Sunday after months of delays in the deeply unstable Horn of Africa country, officials told AFP.

Indirect parliamentary and presidential polls were due to open on July 25 with four days of voting for the upper house by state delegates. The election cycle was due to end with a presidential poll on October 10.

"Even though the plan was the upper house election to start around the various states today, there is a delay, the election may not take place as planned," a member of the electoral commission told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The delay was due to the fact that federal regions were neither able to submit candidates' lists in time, nor to form local committees to cast the ballots, the source added.

A spokesman for the federal government, Mohamed Ibrahim Moalimu, told AFP that the elections were "postponed," without providing details.

Last week, the country's Al-Shabaab jihadists warned politicians against taking part in the elections, which were due to kick off after months of deadlock and delays.

The threat, in an audio message purportedly recorded by Al-Shabaab leader Ahmed Umar Abu Ubaidah, underscores the security challenges facing the election process in the country.

The Al-Qaeda-linked group has been fighting to overthrow the federal government since 2007 and frequently attacks government, security and civilian targets.

Somalia was plunged into an unprecedented constitutional crisis early this year, when President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed and the leaders of Somalia's five states were unable to agree on the terms of a vote before his term lapsed in February.

After months of stalemate that at times turned violent, the political leaders finally agreed last month on a voting timetable.

According to the agreed plan, delegates from the five federal states, chosen by various clans in that state, elect parliamentarians, who then elect a president. The process was due to kick off on Sunday.

But according to several sources who spoke to AFP, the sole state that was capable of carrying out a vote "during the week" was Jubaland. According to one source, the state has already chosen its delegate committee and could publish a list of candidates "during the week."

"We are expecting the election to take place soon," said Mohamed Adan, a senior government official in Jubaland. Another source said the electoral process could kick off in the state later on Sunday.

In Puntland state, sources told AFP that the elections were delayed because of "technical reasons."

In Galmudug state, the local parliament is on a break and will reconvene in early August.

In South-West state, the process is blocked because the regional president is out of the country.

Impasse explodes into violence

Somalia's political impasse exploded into violence in April when negotiations collapsed and the lower house extended the president's mandate by two years, sparking gun battles on the streets of Mogadishu.

Under pressure the president, commonly known as Farmajo, reversed the extension and ordered his prime minister to reconvene with the state leaders to chart a fresh roadmap towards elections.

The ballots follow a complex indirect model whereby special delegates chosen by the country's myriad clan elders pick lawmakers, who in turn choose the president.

Successive leaders have promised a direct vote but political infighting, logistical problems and the Al-Shabaab insurgency has prevented such an exercise.

The upper house vote will be followed by elections for the lower house from September 12-October 2, according to an updated timetable issued last week.

According to a statement issued in June, both assemblies were due to convene to vote for the president on October 10, but no date for this election was given in the updated timeline.

Somalia has not held a direct one-person, one-vote election since 1969, the year dictator Siad Barre led a coup and went on to rule for two decades.

Barre's military regime collapsed in 1991 and Somalia sank into anarchy.

Somalia has postponed elections that were due to start on Sunday after months of delays in the deeply unstable Horn of Africa country, officials told AFP. Indirect parliamentary and presidential polls were due to open on July 25 with four days of voting for the upper house by state delegates.

Somalia has postponed elections that were due to start on Sunday after months of delays in the deeply unstable Horn of Africa country, officials told AFP. Indirect parliamentary and presidential polls were due to open on July 25 with four days of voting for the upper house by state delegates. The election cycle was due to end with a presidential poll on October 10. "Even though the plan was the upper house election to start around the various states today, there is a delay, the election may not take place as planned," a member of the electoral commission told AFP on condition of anonymity. The delay was due to the fact that federal regions were neither able to submit candidates' lists in time, nor to form local committees to cast the ballots, the source added. A spokesman for the federal government, Mohamed Ibrahim Moalimu, told AFP that the elections were "postponed," without providing details. Last week, the country's Al-Shabaab jihadists warned politicians against taking part in the elections, which were due to kick off after months of deadlock and delays. The threat, in an audio message purportedly recorded by Al-Shabaab leader Ahmed Umar Abu Ubaidah, underscores the security challenges facing the election process in the country. The Al-Qaeda-linked group has been fighting to overthrow the federal government since 2007 and frequently attacks government, security and civilian targets. Somalia was plunged into an unprecedented constitutional crisis early this year, when President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed and the leaders of Somalia's five states were unable to agree on the terms of a vote before his term lapsed in February. After months of stalemate that at times turned violent, the political leaders finally agreed last month on a voting timetable. According to the agreed plan, delegates from the five federal states, chosen by various clans in that state, elect parliamentarians, who then elect a president. The process was due to kick off on Sunday. But according to several sources who spoke to AFP, the sole state that was capable of carrying out a vote "during the week" was Jubaland. According to one source, the state has already chosen its delegate committee and could publish a list of candidates "during the week." "We are expecting the election to take place soon," said Mohamed Adan, a senior government official in Jubaland. Another source said the electoral process could kick off in the state later on Sunday. In Puntland state, sources told AFP that the elections were delayed because of "technical reasons." In Galmudug state, the local parliament is on a break and will reconvene in early August. In South-West state, the process is blocked because the regional president is out of the country. Impasse explodes into violence Somalia's political impasse exploded into violence in April when negotiations collapsed and the lower house extended the president's mandate by two years, sparking gun battles on the streets of Mogadishu. Under pressure the president, commonly known as Farmajo, reversed the extension and ordered his prime minister to reconvene with the state leaders to chart a fresh roadmap towards elections. The ballots follow a complex indirect model whereby special delegates chosen by the country's myriad clan elders pick lawmakers, who in turn choose the president. Successive leaders have promised a direct vote but political infighting, logistical problems and the Al-Shabaab insurgency has prevented such an exercise. The upper house vote will be followed by elections for the lower house from September 12-October 2, according to an updated timetable issued last week. According to a statement issued in June, both assemblies were due to convene to vote for the president on October 10, but no date for this election was given in the updated timeline. Somalia has not held a direct one-person, one-vote election since 1969, the year dictator Siad Barre led a coup and went on to rule for two decades. Barre's military regime collapsed in 1991 and Somalia sank into anarchy.

Somalia postpones long-delayed election

The US military conducted an&nbsp;air&nbsp;strike&nbsp;in&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;on Friday against Al Qaeda affiliated&nbsp;Al-Shabaab&nbsp;jihadists, the&nbsp;second&nbsp;in four days after a six-month hiatus, the Pentagon said.

The US military command for Africa (AFRICOM), "conducted an airstrike against&nbsp;Al-Shabaab&nbsp;in the vicinity of Qeycad" in Galmudug province 300 miles (500 kilometers) north of the capital Mogadishu, Pentagon spokeswoman Cindi King told AFP.

The&nbsp;strike&nbsp;was carried out by a drone and there were no US forces on the ground, King said, adding no further details could be provided.

The&nbsp;strike&nbsp;was the&nbsp;second&nbsp;carried out by the US military in&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;in a&nbsp;week, and only the&nbsp;second&nbsp;under US President Joe Biden, who took office in January this year.

On Tuesday, AFRICOM targeted&nbsp;Al-Shabaab&nbsp;jihadists near Galkayo, northwest of Qeycad.

As soon as Biden arrived at the White House, he limited the use of drones against jihadist groups outside US theatres&nbsp;of war.

That reversed the policy of his predecessor Donald Trump, who had given the military carte blanche in countries such as&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;and Libya.&nbsp;

King noted "US forces are authorised to conduct strikes in support of combatant commander-designated partner forces under the 2001 AUMF," referring to the Authorisation for the Use of Military Force, whose authority US presidents have relied on to launch operations against armed Islamist groups.

Last month, the US House of Representatives voted to repeal a 2002 use-of-force measure that gave the US military the legal authority to invade Iraq and has since been used to justify military action against groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan.

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Supporters of repealing the 2002 AUMF argue it has long outlived its purpose and that Congress should reclaim its war-making powers.

No elected officials have indicated there is any immediate plan to reverse the 2001 measure.

Defence Department spokesman John Kirby said last&nbsp;week&nbsp;that AFRICOM commander General Stephen Townsend has "the authority to act in defense of our forces and our Somali partners."

The recent strikes "underscore the threat that&nbsp;Al Shabaab&nbsp;poses in&nbsp;Somalia, and in certainly the Horn of Africa," Kirby said.

"That threat remains significant, and we're going to continue to be vigilant about it."

Drone strikes had multiplied during Trump's term, going from 11 in&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;in 2015, to 64 in 2019 and 54 in 2020, according to the non-governmental group Airwars, which monitors civilian deaths in bombings around the world.

Just before he left office, Trump ordered the withdrawal of some 700 special forces soldiers who were deployed in&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;to train and advise the Somali army.

The US military conducted an air strike in Somalia on Friday against Al Qaeda affiliated Al-Shabaab jihadists, the second in four days after a six-month hiatus, the Pentagon said.

The US military conducted an air strike in Somalia on Friday against Al Qaeda affiliated Al-Shabaab jihadists, the second in four days after a six-month hiatus, the Pentagon said. The US military command for Africa (AFRICOM), "conducted an airstrike against Al-Shabaab in the vicinity of Qeycad" in Galmudug province 300 miles (500 kilometers) north of the capital Mogadishu, Pentagon spokeswoman Cindi King told AFP. The strike was carried out by a drone and there were no US forces on the ground, King said, adding no further details could be provided. The strike was the second carried out by the US military in Somalia in a week, and only the second under US President Joe Biden, who took office in January this year. On Tuesday, AFRICOM targeted Al-Shabaab jihadists near Galkayo, northwest of Qeycad. As soon as Biden arrived at the White House, he limited the use of drones against jihadist groups outside US theatres of war. That reversed the policy of his predecessor Donald Trump, who had given the military carte blanche in countries such as Somalia and Libya. King noted "US forces are authorised to conduct strikes in support of combatant commander-designated partner forces under the 2001 AUMF," referring to the Authorisation for the Use of Military Force, whose authority US presidents have relied on to launch operations against armed Islamist groups. Last month, the US House of Representatives voted to repeal a 2002 use-of-force measure that gave the US military the legal authority to invade Iraq and has since been used to justify military action against groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. Also read | Washington authorises $100 million for Afghan migration aid Supporters of repealing the 2002 AUMF argue it has long outlived its purpose and that Congress should reclaim its war-making powers. No elected officials have indicated there is any immediate plan to reverse the 2001 measure. Defence Department spokesman John Kirby said last week that AFRICOM commander General Stephen Townsend has "the authority to act in defense of our forces and our Somali partners." The recent strikes "underscore the threat that Al Shabaab poses in Somalia, and in certainly the Horn of Africa," Kirby said. "That threat remains significant, and we're going to continue to be vigilant about it." Drone strikes had multiplied during Trump's term, going from 11 in Somalia in 2015, to 64 in 2019 and 54 in 2020, according to the non-governmental group Airwars, which monitors civilian deaths in bombings around the world. Just before he left office, Trump ordered the withdrawal of some 700 special forces soldiers who were deployed in Somalia to train and advise the Somali army.

US launches second air strike in a week targeting Al-Shabaab in Somalia

An estimated 30 people died on Sunday when Somalia's Islamist al Shabaab group launched an attack in a town in the country's semi-autonomous state of Galmudug, a security official said. 
 
The insurgents used car bombs in the assault on a military base in Galmudug's Wisil town, located in central Somalia, triggering a fight with government troops and armed locals, Major Mohamed&nbsp;Awale, a military&nbsp; officer in Galmudug said. 
 
"They attacked the base with two car bombs and&nbsp;fierce&nbsp;fighting that lasted over an hour followed," he said. 
 
"The car bombs damaged the military vehicles...residents were well armed and&nbsp;reinforced the base&nbsp;and chased&nbsp;the al Shabaab." 
 
Thirty people, including 17 soldiers and 13 civilians, died in the fighting, Awale said. 
 
The al Qaeda-allied al Shabaab has been fighting in Somalia for more than a decade to try to topple the country's central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law. 
 
Fighters from the group frequently carry out gun and bomb assaults on a range of both civilian and military targets including busy traffic intersections, hotels and military bases. 
 
During the attack that lasted about an hour, Abdullahi&nbsp;Mohamed, a resident in Wisil said he and others had 'crept and slept on the ground,' and added he had personally seen about 30 people injured in the assault. 
 
The Somalia government condemned the attack and said 41 al Shabaab fighters had been killed in the fighting as both the military and armed residents pursued the assailants, according to a statement posted on the website of the Somalia state news agency, SONNA. 
 
Those injured in the attack, the statement said, had been airlifted to the capital Mogadishu for treatment. 
 
Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack via a statement on its Radio Al Andalus&nbsp;and said its fighters had killed over 30 soldiers and injured over 40 others. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

An estimated 30 people died on Sunday when Somalia's Islamist al Shabaab group launched an attack in a town in the country's semi-autonomous state of Galmudug, a security official said.

An estimated 30 people died on Sunday when Somalia's Islamist al Shabaab group launched an attack in a town in the country's semi-autonomous state of Galmudug, a security official said. The insurgents used car bombs in the assault on a military base in Galmudug's Wisil town, located in central Somalia, triggering a fight with government troops and armed locals, Major Mohamed Awale, a military officer in Galmudug said. "They attacked the base with two car bombs and fierce fighting that lasted over an hour followed," he said. "The car bombs damaged the military vehicles...residents were well armed and reinforced the base and chased the al Shabaab." Thirty people, including 17 soldiers and 13 civilians, died in the fighting, Awale said. The al Qaeda-allied al Shabaab has been fighting in Somalia for more than a decade to try to topple the country's central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law. Fighters from the group frequently carry out gun and bomb assaults on a range of both civilian and military targets including busy traffic intersections, hotels and military bases. During the attack that lasted about an hour, Abdullahi Mohamed, a resident in Wisil said he and others had 'crept and slept on the ground,' and added he had personally seen about 30 people injured in the assault. The Somalia government condemned the attack and said 41 al Shabaab fighters had been killed in the fighting as both the military and armed residents pursued the assailants, according to a statement posted on the website of the Somalia state news agency, SONNA. Those injured in the attack, the statement said, had been airlifted to the capital Mogadishu for treatment. Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack via a statement on its Radio Al Andalus and said its fighters had killed over 30 soldiers and injured over 40 others. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 30 killed in al Shabaab attack in Somalia: Security official

At least 15 people were killed on Tuesday in a suicide bombing as recruits lined up outside an army camp in the Somali capital Mogadishu, a Reuters witness who counted the bodies at Madina Hospital said.

Officials at the hospital confirmed the dead were killed in an attack earlier in the day at a checkpoint outside the General Degaban military training camp in the capital.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Islamist group al Shabaab frequently carries out bombings in the Horn of Africa country.

Dozens of people crowded outside Madina Hospital searching for their missing relatives.

"My son is dead. I have seen with my eyes. Many boys perished. They were asked to come for recruitment and then bombed. The government is still hiding other casualties," said Amina Farah, sobbing as she collapsed into the arms of family members at the hospital.

Government officials were not reachable for comment.

Army recruit Ahmed Ali, who was struck in the head by shrapnel, told Reuters at the hospital: "The place was overcrowded with new recruits and soldiers when the blast occurred."

A Somali military officer, Odawaa Yusuf Rage, told state media earlier on Tuesday that 10 new recruits had been killed, and 20 others wounded, when a suicide bomber detonated explosives.

At least 15 people were killed on Tuesday in a suicide bombing as recruits lined up outside an army camp in the Somali capital Mogadishu, a Reuters witness who counted the bodies at Madina Hospital said.

At least 15 people were killed on Tuesday in a suicide bombing as recruits lined up outside an army camp in the Somali capital Mogadishu, a Reuters witness who counted the bodies at Madina Hospital said. Officials at the hospital confirmed the dead were killed in an attack earlier in the day at a checkpoint outside the General Degaban military training camp in the capital. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Islamist group al Shabaab frequently carries out bombings in the Horn of Africa country. Dozens of people crowded outside Madina Hospital searching for their missing relatives. "My son is dead. I have seen with my eyes. Many boys perished. They were asked to come for recruitment and then bombed. The government is still hiding other casualties," said Amina Farah, sobbing as she collapsed into the arms of family members at the hospital. Government officials were not reachable for comment. Army recruit Ahmed Ali, who was struck in the head by shrapnel, told Reuters at the hospital: "The place was overcrowded with new recruits and soldiers when the blast occurred." A Somali military officer, Odawaa Yusuf Rage, told state media earlier on Tuesday that 10 new recruits had been killed, and 20 others wounded, when a suicide bomber detonated explosives.

At least 15 killed in suicide bombing at army camp in Somalia

Somalia's foreign minister has invited Kenya to reopen its embassy in Mogadishu in a push to resume full diplomatic ties, in a note seen by AFP on Sunday.

Kenya's mission has been shut since December when&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;broke off relations after Nairobi hosted the leadership of Somaliland, a breakaway state not recognised by the central government in Mogadishu.

The Kenyan ambassador was expelled and Mogadishu recalled its envoy from Nairobi.

On May 6,&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;said it had restored diplomatic ties with Kenya, which looked forward to "further normalisation".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-surprise-move-kenya-suspends-flights-from-somalia-384548">Also read |&nbsp;In surprise move, Kenya suspends flights from Somalia</a>

Somalia's Foreign Minister Abdirizak Mohamed wrote in a&nbsp;note dated Saturday: "In the spirit of good neighbourliness, the Federal Republic of&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;calls on the Republic of Kenya to reopen its diplomatic mission in&nbsp;Somalia, and the Federal Government of&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;will reciprocally reopen its embassy in Kenya.

"The resumption of full diplomatic relations will be a positive start to the commencement of bilateral discussions between the two countries," the minister said in the note addressed to Kenya's foreign minister.

The foreign ministry in Nairobi did not respond to AFP requests for comment on Sunday.

Somalia&nbsp;has long bristled over what it calls Kenya's meddling in regions over its border, while Nairobi has accused Mogadishu of using it as a scapegoat for its own political problems.

The neighbours have also engaged in a long-running territorial dispute over a stretch of the Indian Ocean claimed by both nations which are believed to hold valuable deposits of oil and gas, and have sought international arbitration over the matter.

The row over which nation controls access to the lucrative deposits escalated in early 2019 after&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;decided to auction off oil and gas blocks in a disputed maritime area, prompting Kenya to recall its ambassador.

Somalia's foreign minister has invited Kenya to reopen its embassy in Mogadishu in a push to resume full diplomatic ties, in a note seen by AFP on Sunday. Kenya's mission has been shut since December when Somalia broke off relations after Nairobi hosted the leadership of Somaliland, a breakaway state not recognised by the central government in Mogadishu.

Somalia's foreign minister has invited Kenya to reopen its embassy in Mogadishu in a push to resume full diplomatic ties, in a note seen by AFP on Sunday. Kenya's mission has been shut since December when Somalia broke off relations after Nairobi hosted the leadership of Somaliland, a breakaway state not recognised by the central government in Mogadishu. The Kenyan ambassador was expelled and Mogadishu recalled its envoy from Nairobi. On May 6, Somalia said it had restored diplomatic ties with Kenya, which looked forward to "further normalisation". Also read | In surprise move, Kenya suspends flights from Somalia Somalia's Foreign Minister Abdirizak Mohamed wrote in a note dated Saturday: "In the spirit of good neighbourliness, the Federal Republic of Somalia calls on the Republic of Kenya to reopen its diplomatic mission in Somalia, and the Federal Government of Somalia will reciprocally reopen its embassy in Kenya. "The resumption of full diplomatic relations will be a positive start to the commencement of bilateral discussions between the two countries," the minister said in the note addressed to Kenya's foreign minister. The foreign ministry in Nairobi did not respond to AFP requests for comment on Sunday. Somalia has long bristled over what it calls Kenya's meddling in regions over its border, while Nairobi has accused Mogadishu of using it as a scapegoat for its own political problems. The neighbours have also engaged in a long-running territorial dispute over a stretch of the Indian Ocean claimed by both nations which are believed to hold valuable deposits of oil and gas, and have sought international arbitration over the matter. The row over which nation controls access to the lucrative deposits escalated in early 2019 after Somalia decided to auction off oil and gas blocks in a disputed maritime area, prompting Kenya to recall its ambassador.

Somalia asks Kenya to reopen embassy in Mogadishu

Kenya&nbsp;announced Tuesday that flights between Nairobi and Mogadishu had been suspended, just days after&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;said diplomatic ties with its neighbour had been normalised following months of tensions.

The&nbsp;Kenya&nbsp;Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said commercial flights to and from&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;would be paused for three months, without giving a reason.

"All flights between&nbsp;Kenya&nbsp;and&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;are suspended expect medevac flights and United Nations flights on humanitarian missions only," the regulator said.

KCAA director-general Gilbert Kibe told AFP the suspension was "a decision by the government" but gave no further details.

The directive appeared to catch some Somali aviation officials and travel agents by surprise.

"We had not been given a prior notice, and there's been no explanation about the reason so far," an airport tower operator in Mogadishu told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The suspension comes a day after&nbsp;Somalia&nbsp;said shipments of khat from&nbsp;Kenya&nbsp;remained on hold. Khat is a narcotic leaf popular in&nbsp;Somalia.

Somalia&nbsp;announced last week that bilateral ties with&nbsp;Kenya&nbsp;had been restored, citing "the interests of good neighbourliness" as motivating its decision.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-somalia-agree-to-normalise-ties-after-tensions-262304">Kenya, Somalia agree to normalise ties after tensions</a>

Nairobi said it took note of the statement and was looking forward "to further normalisation of relations by the Somali authorities."

Mogadishu cut off diplomatic relations in December after Nairobi hosted the political leadership of Somaliland, a breakaway state not recognised by&nbsp;Somalia's central government.

Somalia&nbsp;has long bristled over what it calls&nbsp;Kenya's meddling in regions over its border, while Nairobi has accused Mogadishu of using it as a scapegoat for its own political problems.

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The pair have also engaged in a long-running territorial dispute over a stretch of the Indian Ocean claimed by both nations believed to hold valuable deposits of oil and gas, and have sought international arbitration over the matter.

Kenya announced Tuesday that flights between Nairobi and Mogadishu had been suspended, just days after Somalia said diplomatic ties with its neighbour had been normalised following months of tensions.

Kenya announced Tuesday that flights between Nairobi and Mogadishu had been suspended, just days after Somalia said diplomatic ties with its neighbour had been normalised following months of tensions. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said commercial flights to and from Somalia would be paused for three months, without giving a reason. "All flights between Kenya and Somalia are suspended expect medevac flights and United Nations flights on humanitarian missions only," the regulator said. KCAA director-general Gilbert Kibe told AFP the suspension was "a decision by the government" but gave no further details. The directive appeared to catch some Somali aviation officials and travel agents by surprise. "We had not been given a prior notice, and there's been no explanation about the reason so far," an airport tower operator in Mogadishu told AFP on condition of anonymity. The suspension comes a day after Somalia said shipments of khat from Kenya remained on hold. Khat is a narcotic leaf popular in Somalia. Somalia announced last week that bilateral ties with Kenya had been restored, citing "the interests of good neighbourliness" as motivating its decision. Also read | Kenya, Somalia agree to normalise ties after tensions Nairobi said it took note of the statement and was looking forward "to further normalisation of relations by the Somali authorities." Mogadishu cut off diplomatic relations in December after Nairobi hosted the political leadership of Somaliland, a breakaway state not recognised by Somalia's central government. Somalia has long bristled over what it calls Kenya's meddling in regions over its border, while Nairobi has accused Mogadishu of using it as a scapegoat for its own political problems. The pair have also engaged in a long-running territorial dispute over a stretch of the Indian Ocean claimed by both nations believed to hold valuable deposits of oil and gas, and have sought international arbitration over the matter.

In surprise move, Kenya suspends flights from Somalia

Somali lawmakers voted unanimously on Saturday to cancel a two-year presidential term extension they had approved last month, after clashes in the capital Mogadishu between factions of the security forces, which are divided over the issue. &nbsp;

In a speech following the vote in the lower house of parliament, Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble ordered the army to return to barracks and urged politicians to avoid inciting violence. &nbsp;

The political crisis has raised fears that al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents could exploit a security vacuum if state forces split along clan lines and turn on each other. The group has taken over at least one Somali town in the past week as heavily armed fighters moved from the countryside into the capital city. &nbsp;

President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's attempt to extend his term has also angered foreign donors, who have backed his government in an attempt to bring stability to Somalia after more than two decades as a failed state following a civil war that began in 1991.&nbsp;

Saturday’s lower house vote was broadcast on Somali television and came shortly after Mohamed addressed parliament and said he was directing the prime minister to prepare to hold a delayed parliamentary election.&nbsp;

Roble said in a Twitter post late on Saturday that the government will ‘soon’ prepare the plan for elections, and thanked the president and the parliament. &nbsp;

Mohamed’s term expired in February, but without a new crop of lawmakers, parliament was unable to choose a president.&nbsp;

The term extension was approved by the lower house last month but rejected by the Senate, provoking the crisis that has intensified in the past week.&nbsp;

Between 60,000 and 100,000 people were forced to flee their homes following clashes on Sunday that stirred fears of all-out war between heavily armed factions for and against the president.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Somali lawmakers voted unanimously on Saturday to cancel a two-year presidential term extension they had approved last month, after clashes in the capital Mogadishu between factions of the security forces, which are divided over the issue.

Somali lawmakers voted unanimously on Saturday to cancel a two-year presidential term extension they had approved last month, after clashes in the capital Mogadishu between factions of the security forces, which are divided over the issue. In a speech following the vote in the lower house of parliament, Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble ordered the army to return to barracks and urged politicians to avoid inciting violence. The political crisis has raised fears that al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents could exploit a security vacuum if state forces split along clan lines and turn on each other. The group has taken over at least one Somali town in the past week as heavily armed fighters moved from the countryside into the capital city. President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's attempt to extend his term has also angered foreign donors, who have backed his government in an attempt to bring stability to Somalia after more than two decades as a failed state following a civil war that began in 1991. Saturday’s lower house vote was broadcast on Somali television and came shortly after Mohamed addressed parliament and said he was directing the prime minister to prepare to hold a delayed parliamentary election. Roble said in a Twitter post late on Saturday that the government will ‘soon’ prepare the plan for elections, and thanked the president and the parliament. Mohamed’s term expired in February, but without a new crop of lawmakers, parliament was unable to choose a president. The term extension was approved by the lower house last month but rejected by the Senate, provoking the crisis that has intensified in the past week. Between 60,000 and 100,000 people were forced to flee their homes following clashes on Sunday that stirred fears of all-out war between heavily armed factions for and against the president. (With inputs from agencies)

Somalia's parliament votes to cancel presidential term extension 

Somalia's President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed said on Wednesday he would drop an attempt to extend his term by two years, bowing to domestic and international pressure after clashes in the capital Mogadishu split security forces along clan lines.

Hours earlier, Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble had denounced the proposed term extension and called for preparations for a new presidential election.

The president's term expired in February, but the country failed to hold elections as planned. Earlier this month, the lower house of parliament voted to extend Mohamed's four-year term by another two years. The Senate rejected the move, provoking a political crisis.

Commanders in both the police and military had defected to the opposition, and rival factions of the security forces had fortified positions in central Mogadishu, raising fears of clashes in the heart of the city, and a security vacuum in the surrounding areas that could be exploited by al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents.

In a televised statement in the early hours of Wednesday, the president said he commended the efforts of the prime minister and other political leaders and welcomed the statements they issued calling for elections to be held without further delay. He also called for urgent discussions with the signatories to an agreement signed last September on the conduct of the elections.

The opposition, who had called on the president to resign, did not immediately respond. The president did not discuss the opposition in his speech, but denounced unnamed "individuals and foreign entities who have no aim other than to destabilize the country."

The heads of two regional states who had been staunch allies of the president had also rejected on Tuesday the proposed two-year extension of Mohamed's term. Those leaders said in statements immediately after the president's speech that they welcomed his announcement.

Mohamed's attempt to extend his term had also angered foreign donors who backed his government, hoping it would help bring stability and quash the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgency. But the proposed extension pitted factions in the security forces against each other.

This week, opposition forces abandoned positions in the countryside as they headed for a showdown in the capital, allowing al Shabaab to take over at least one town.

Forces loyal to the opposition hold important parts of the city and clashed with government forces over the weekend, fuelling worries the country could return to all-out war.

The president said he urged "all security agencies to maintain the stability of the capital and the safety of innocent civilians, avoiding any actions that may lead to insecurity."

The unrest is the second bout of violence in Mogadishu over the proposed extension to Mohamed's term. Continued clashes could further splinter Somali security forces along ethnic lines, said the International Crisis Group, a think-tank.

"Somalia&nbsp;is teetering on the brink of a major breakdown once again," it said in a briefing published on Tuesday.

Somalia's fledgling armed forces are drawn from clan militias who have often battled each other for power and resources.

Mohamed is Darod, one of&nbsp;Somalia's major clans. The majority of the Somali military in the capital are Hawiye, another large clan. Most of the opposition leaders are Hawiye.

Somalia's President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed said on Wednesday he would drop an attempt to extend his term by two years, bowing to domestic and international pressure after clashes in the capital Mogadishu split security forces along clan lines.

Somalia's President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed said on Wednesday he would drop an attempt to extend his term by two years, bowing to domestic and international pressure after clashes in the capital Mogadishu split security forces along clan lines. Hours earlier, Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble had denounced the proposed term extension and called for preparations for a new presidential election. The president's term expired in February, but the country failed to hold elections as planned. Earlier this month, the lower house of parliament voted to extend Mohamed's four-year term by another two years. The Senate rejected the move, provoking a political crisis. Commanders in both the police and military had defected to the opposition, and rival factions of the security forces had fortified positions in central Mogadishu, raising fears of clashes in the heart of the city, and a security vacuum in the surrounding areas that could be exploited by al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents. In a televised statement in the early hours of Wednesday, the president said he commended the efforts of the prime minister and other political leaders and welcomed the statements they issued calling for elections to be held without further delay. He also called for urgent discussions with the signatories to an agreement signed last September on the conduct of the elections. The opposition, who had called on the president to resign, did not immediately respond. The president did not discuss the opposition in his speech, but denounced unnamed "individuals and foreign entities who have no aim other than to destabilize the country." The heads of two regional states who had been staunch allies of the president had also rejected on Tuesday the proposed two-year extension of Mohamed's term. Those leaders said in statements immediately after the president's speech that they welcomed his announcement. Mohamed's attempt to extend his term had also angered foreign donors who backed his government, hoping it would help bring stability and quash the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgency. But the proposed extension pitted factions in the security forces against each other. This week, opposition forces abandoned positions in the countryside as they headed for a showdown in the capital, allowing al Shabaab to take over at least one town. Forces loyal to the opposition hold important parts of the city and clashed with government forces over the weekend, fuelling worries the country could return to all-out war. The president said he urged "all security agencies to maintain the stability of the capital and the safety of innocent civilians, avoiding any actions that may lead to insecurity." The unrest is the second bout of violence in Mogadishu over the proposed extension to Mohamed's term. Continued clashes could further splinter Somali security forces along ethnic lines, said the International Crisis Group, a think-tank. "Somalia is teetering on the brink of a major breakdown once again," it said in a briefing published on Tuesday. Somalia's fledgling armed forces are drawn from clan militias who have often battled each other for power and resources. Mohamed is Darod, one of Somalia's major clans. The majority of the Somali military in the capital are Hawiye, another large clan. Most of the opposition leaders are Hawiye.

Bowing to pressure, Somalia's president agrees not to extend presidential term

Gunfire erupted in Somalia's capital on Sunday between soldiers loyal to the government and others angry at the country's leader as tensions spiked over President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's extended stay in power.

Gunfire erupts in Somali capital Mogadishu amid President's standoff

Gunshots rang out late on Friday in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, witnesses said, when government troops approached the home of the city's former police commander who was sacked for opposing a move by the president to extend his term.

The stand-off reveals splits within Somalia's security services that threaten to see forces turn on each other, creating an opportunity for the al Qaeda linked al Shabaab insurgency to exploit.

"Somalia's long-running political crisis has entered a new, dangerous phase," said the International Crisis Group, a Brussels-based think-tank, in a briefing note on Saturday.

"The opposition is said to be considering forming a parallel government; cracks have deepened in a security apparatus long divided along clan lines; and the president's opponents have vowed to resist extension of his rule."

Somalia, riven by civil war since 1991, is trying to rebuild with international help, but the path to stability has been obstructed by a political crisis caused by a failure to hold elections that were due in February.

On Monday, lawmakers extended President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's four year term by up to two years.

The resolution passed after then Mogadishu police chief Saadaq Omar Hassan announced parliament was suspended, triggering his sacking moments later.

Hassan retreated to his house in the Shirkole area of the city, which is guarded by 100 armed men who have been reinforced by clan fighters, his family and area residents said.

Calm returned after the burst of gunfire, but some Shirkole residents held street demonstrations in support of Hassan, burning tyres and shouting slogans against the president.

"If you are attacked, you have to defend yourself," said Mahad Mohamed Salad, a pro-Hassan lawmaker.

The government denied claims it wanted to attack Hassan.

"We have no interest attacking a civilian area where most inhabitants are children and women," interior security minister Hassan Hunbdubey said in an online address late Friday.

Donors, who have opposed the president's move to extend his term, fear the crisis could abet further attacks by Islamist al Shabaab militants, who have been trying for years to topple the government.

The militants on Friday killed Mohamed Abdi Hayle, the district commissioner for Hamarjajab on the edge of Mogadishu, the state news agency reported.

They also captured the Becaadweyn area of the central state of Galmudug without resistance on Thursday, after the Somali army left the area, residents said.

Gunshots rang out late on Friday in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, witnesses said, when government troops approached the home of the city's former police commander who was sacked for opposing a move by the president to extend his term.

Gunshots rang out late on Friday in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, witnesses said, when government troops approached the home of the city's former police commander who was sacked for opposing a move by the president to extend his term. The stand-off reveals splits within Somalia's security services that threaten to see forces turn on each other, creating an opportunity for the al Qaeda linked al Shabaab insurgency to exploit. "Somalia's long-running political crisis has entered a new, dangerous phase," said the International Crisis Group, a Brussels-based think-tank, in a briefing note on Saturday. "The opposition is said to be considering forming a parallel government; cracks have deepened in a security apparatus long divided along clan lines; and the president's opponents have vowed to resist extension of his rule." Somalia, riven by civil war since 1991, is trying to rebuild with international help, but the path to stability has been obstructed by a political crisis caused by a failure to hold elections that were due in February. On Monday, lawmakers extended President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's four year term by up to two years. The resolution passed after then Mogadishu police chief Saadaq Omar Hassan announced parliament was suspended, triggering his sacking moments later. Hassan retreated to his house in the Shirkole area of the city, which is guarded by 100 armed men who have been reinforced by clan fighters, his family and area residents said. Calm returned after the burst of gunfire, but some Shirkole residents held street demonstrations in support of Hassan, burning tyres and shouting slogans against the president. "If you are attacked, you have to defend yourself," said Mahad Mohamed Salad, a pro-Hassan lawmaker. The government denied claims it wanted to attack Hassan. "We have no interest attacking a civilian area where most inhabitants are children and women," interior security minister Hassan Hunbdubey said in an online address late Friday. Donors, who have opposed the president's move to extend his term, fear the crisis could abet further attacks by Islamist al Shabaab militants, who have been trying for years to topple the government. The militants on Friday killed Mohamed Abdi Hayle, the district commissioner for Hamarjajab on the edge of Mogadishu, the state news agency reported. They also captured the Becaadweyn area of the central state of Galmudug without resistance on Thursday, after the Somali army left the area, residents said.

Somali government troops face off with forces loyal to sacked police boss

The governor of the Bay region in Somalia had a near-death experience as he escaped a suicide bombing that took lives of two of his bodyguards and one other person.

Ali Wardhere Dooyow is the governor of the Bay region who was targeted in a suicide bombing that took three lives and injured five others.

The incident took place outside a hotel in Baidoa, the capital of Somalia’s Bay region.

"Ali Wardhere Dooyow, the governor of Bay region, was the target. The governor was not hurt, but two of his guards and one more person have died," Mohamud Adan Ibrahim, a police officer in Baidoa, told Anadolu Agency.

The five injured have been reported to be civilians who were taken to hospitals for treatment, an official reported.

"It was a horrible incident which shocked us, I was sitting in a shop not far away … and I rushed to see what happened,"&nbsp;a witness told AFP news agency. "I saw bodies of people shattered amid the blast."

Al-Qaeda linked armed group, Al-Shabab, has claimed responsibility for the attack on the governor.

The governor of the Bay region in Somalia had a near-death experience as he escaped a suicide bombing that took lives of two of his bodyguards and one other person.

The governor of the Bay region in Somalia had a near-death experience as he escaped a suicide bombing that took lives of two of his bodyguards and one other person. Ali Wardhere Dooyow is the governor of the Bay region who was targeted in a suicide bombing that took three lives and injured five others. The incident took place outside a hotel in Baidoa, the capital of Somalia’s Bay region. "Ali Wardhere Dooyow, the governor of Bay region, was the target. The governor was not hurt, but two of his guards and one more person have died," Mohamud Adan Ibrahim, a police officer in Baidoa, told Anadolu Agency. The five injured have been reported to be civilians who were taken to hospitals for treatment, an official reported. "It was a horrible incident which shocked us, I was sitting in a shop not far away … and I rushed to see what happened," a witness told AFP news agency. "I saw bodies of people shattered amid the blast." Al-Qaeda linked armed group, Al-Shabab, has claimed responsibility for the attack on the governor.

Somalia: Governor of Bay region escapes suicide bombing; 3 dead, 5 injured

20 people have died in Somalia and dozens have been wounded in a car bomb attack in the Somalian capital on Friday. A suicide car bomb targeted a busy restaurant near the port area. According to reports, a three-wheeler rickshaw packed with explosives hit the restaurant during the night.

Somalia: Explosives packed car detonated at a Restaurant

At least 20 people were killed and 30 wounded by a suicide car bomb just outside a restaurant near the port in Somalia`s capital Mogadishu late on Friday, an emergency services official said. 
 
The blast sent plumes of smoke into the sky and triggered gunfire, witnesses and state-owned media reported. 
 
"So far we have carried 20 dead people and 30 injured from the blast scene," Dr. Abdulkadir Aden, founder of AAMIN Ambulance services told Reuters. 
 
The blast occurred at the Luul Yemeni restaurant near the port, witnesses said. 
 
"A speeding car exploded at Luul Yemeni restaurant. I was going to the restaurant but ran back when the blast shook and covered the area with smoke," resident Ahmed Abdullahi, who lives near the site, told Reuters. 
 
Somalia`s state-controlled Radio Mogadishu reported there was also destruction of property and that police had cordoned off the area. 
 
No one claimed responsibility for the blast. 
 
Islamist group al Shabaab frequently carries out such bombings in Somalia and elsewhere as part of its campaign to topple the Horn of African country`s central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

At least 20 people were killed and 30 wounded by a suicide car bomb just outside a restaurant near the port in Somalia`s capital Mogadishu late on Friday, an emergency services official said.

At least 20 people were killed and 30 wounded by a suicide car bomb just outside a restaurant near the port in Somalia`s capital Mogadishu late on Friday, an emergency services official said. The blast sent plumes of smoke into the sky and triggered gunfire, witnesses and state-owned media reported. "So far we have carried 20 dead people and 30 injured from the blast scene," Dr. Abdulkadir Aden, founder of AAMIN Ambulance services told Reuters. The blast occurred at the Luul Yemeni restaurant near the port, witnesses said. "A speeding car exploded at Luul Yemeni restaurant. I was going to the restaurant but ran back when the blast shook and covered the area with smoke," resident Ahmed Abdullahi, who lives near the site, told Reuters. Somalia`s state-controlled Radio Mogadishu reported there was also destruction of property and that police had cordoned off the area. No one claimed responsibility for the blast. Islamist group al Shabaab frequently carries out such bombings in Somalia and elsewhere as part of its campaign to topple the Horn of African country`s central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

At least 20 killed by suicide car bomb in Somalian capital

At least five soldiers were killed and more than a dozen people, mostly civilians, were wounded in violence related to protests over Somalia's delayed election.

On Friday, Somali security forces fired on hundreds of people peacefully demonstrating in Mogadishu over the delayed vote. The capital was, however, calm on Saturday, and streets were open again.

Friday's confrontation followed gunfire overnight near the presidential palace.

President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed is under pressure as the February 8 election date came and went without resolution of issues related to how the vote is conducted in the Horn of Africa nation. Some Somalis are demanding that he step down.

The president has not commented publically since Friday's events.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble, on his part, has said he was 'very sorry' about what happened.

An alliance of opposition leaders, along with civil society groups, have objected to the federal election, arguing it leaves them no say in the politics of their own country.

At least five soldiers were killed and more than a dozen people, mostly civilians, were wounded in violence related to protests over Somalia's delayed election. On Friday, Somali security forces fired on hundreds of people peacefully demonstrating in Mogadishu over the delayed vote.

At least five soldiers were killed and more than a dozen people, mostly civilians, were wounded in violence related to protests over Somalia's delayed election. On Friday, Somali security forces fired on hundreds of people peacefully demonstrating in Mogadishu over the delayed vote. The capital was, however, calm on Saturday, and streets were open again. Friday's confrontation followed gunfire overnight near the presidential palace. President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed is under pressure as the February 8 election date came and went without resolution of issues related to how the vote is conducted in the Horn of Africa nation. Some Somalis are demanding that he step down. The president has not commented publically since Friday's events. Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble, on his part, has said he was 'very sorry' about what happened. An alliance of opposition leaders, along with civil society groups, have objected to the federal election, arguing it leaves them no say in the politics of their own country.

Five killed in Somalia's election-related violence

Twelve security agents were killed on Sunday by a roadside bomb planted outside a Somali town where political leaders had been meeting to try to resolve a row over a presidential selection process due to be held on Monday.

Islamist militant group al Shabaab, which analysts say is keen on exploiting the deadlock, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Those killed included Abdirashid Abdunur, the head of the National Intelligence and Security Agency in Dhusamareb, police officer Mohamed Ahmed said. In all, 12 people from the agency were killed in the attack near the town, police said.

A deal on how to choose a new president on Monday has been elusive so far, threatening to unleash more political turmoil.

Somalia had initially aimed to hold its first direct election in more than three decades but delays in preparations, and the government`s inability to rein in daily attacks by al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents, meant switching to an indirect vote, with elders picking lawmakers who would choose a president.

However, regional authorities in at least two of Somalia`s five federal states, Puntland and Jubbaland, oppose holding the election for now.

Twelve security agents were killed on Sunday by a roadside bomb planted outside a Somali town where political leaders had been meeting to try to resolve a row over a presidential selection process due to be held on Monday.

Twelve security agents were killed on Sunday by a roadside bomb planted outside a Somali town where political leaders had been meeting to try to resolve a row over a presidential selection process due to be held on Monday. Islamist militant group al Shabaab, which analysts say is keen on exploiting the deadlock, claimed responsibility for the attack. Those killed included Abdirashid Abdunur, the head of the National Intelligence and Security Agency in Dhusamareb, police officer Mohamed Ahmed said. In all, 12 people from the agency were killed in the attack near the town, police said. A deal on how to choose a new president on Monday has been elusive so far, threatening to unleash more political turmoil. Somalia had initially aimed to hold its first direct election in more than three decades but delays in preparations, and the government`s inability to rein in daily attacks by al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents, meant switching to an indirect vote, with elders picking lawmakers who would choose a president. However, regional authorities in at least two of Somalia`s five federal states, Puntland and Jubbaland, oppose holding the election for now.

Bomb kills 12 security agents in Somalia as politicians wrangle over presidency

On Sunday afternoon, a group of terrorists attacked a hotel in Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu. This terrorist group attempted a car bomb followed by an attack on one of the popular hotels in the city.

A car bombing was followed by continuous and heavy gunfire at the entrance of the popular Hotel Afrik. An exchange of gunfire took place between al Shabaab militants and security forces of the hotel for some time which led to deaths of nine people and several others injured.

"The operation is over now. Nine people including four attackers died and over 10 civilians were injured," Sadik Ali told local reporters.

In these attacks, former military general Mohamed Nur Galal was also killed. "I condemn the barbaric attack," Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble said. "General Mohamed Nur Galal will be remembered for his over 50 year role in defending the country."

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-and-gunfire-rock-somalias-capital-shebab-jihadist-group-claims-responsibility-360473">&nbsp;Blast and gunfire rock Somalia's capital; Shebab jihadist group claims responsibility</a>

This attack was claimed by the jihadist group al Shabaab, which has carried out similar acts of violence in the area in the recent past too.

The attack has come at a time when the country is struggling to conduct elections which have been delayed since December 2020 as the opposition alleged the president was manipulating the electoral board with this allies to rig the election results.

Nearly 700 US military personnel had also been withdrawn from the area in the last month, after which such acts of violence ad terrorism have increased. The US troops in the area had been helping the Somali special forces (Danaab) in dealing with the al Shabaab militants.

The US troops helped the Somali special forces by providing them resources such as air support and medical evacuations.

However, as the former US President, Donald Trump, ordered a pullout of the US troops from the area, the local authorities had feared an increase in such activities by the jihadist groups.

On Sunday afternoon, a group of terrorists attacked a hotel in Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu. This terrorist group attempted a car bomb followed by an attack on one of the popular hotels in the city.

On Sunday afternoon, a group of terrorists attacked a hotel in Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu. This terrorist group attempted a car bomb followed by an attack on one of the popular hotels in the city. A car bombing was followed by continuous and heavy gunfire at the entrance of the popular Hotel Afrik. An exchange of gunfire took place between al Shabaab militants and security forces of the hotel for some time which led to deaths of nine people and several others injured. "The operation is over now. Nine people including four attackers died and over 10 civilians were injured," Sadik Ali told local reporters. In these attacks, former military general Mohamed Nur Galal was also killed. "I condemn the barbaric attack," Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble said. "General Mohamed Nur Galal will be remembered for his over 50 year role in defending the country." Also read| Blast and gunfire rock Somalia's capital; Shebab jihadist group claims responsibility This attack was claimed by the jihadist group al Shabaab, which has carried out similar acts of violence in the area in the recent past too. The attack has come at a time when the country is struggling to conduct elections which have been delayed since December 2020 as the opposition alleged the president was manipulating the electoral board with this allies to rig the election results. Nearly 700 US military personnel had also been withdrawn from the area in the last month, after which such acts of violence ad terrorism have increased. The US troops in the area had been helping the Somali special forces (Danaab) in dealing with the al Shabaab militants. The US troops helped the Somali special forces by providing them resources such as air support and medical evacuations. However, as the former US President, Donald Trump, ordered a pullout of the US troops from the area, the local authorities had feared an increase in such activities by the jihadist groups.

Somalia attacks kill 9, injure 10 after car bomb and gunfire

A car bomb attack took place near a hotel in Somalia's capital city,&nbsp;Mogadishu, on Sunday. The car bombing was followed by continuous and heavy gunfire at the entrance of the popular hotel.

"There's an attack under way in a hotel," a&nbsp;police officer Mohamed Adan told the local reporters of AFP. The exchange of fire started immediately after the car bomb exploded at the entrance of the Hotel Afrik.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-killed-14-wounded-in-bomb-attack-in-somalias-mogadishu-al-shabab-claims-responsibility-354091">Five killed, 14 wounded in bomb attack in Somalia's Mogadishu; Al-Shabab claims responsibility</a>

Following the car bomb, the police officials reported that several "armed men have raided the building" and there "is an exchange of fire".

The onlookers described the bomb as scary and said, "A speeding car exploded near the hotel and checkpoint. The blast shook us and heavy gunfire followed," shopkeeper Ali Abdulahi told Reuters.

"I suspect the militants entered Hotel Afrik. That is where the exchange of gunfire is now taking place," he added.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-suicide-bombing-misses-pm-but-kills-several-top-commanders-350924">Somalia suicide bombing misses PM but kills several top commanders</a>

Emergency services and ambulances were called on the spot of the bombing immediately to cater to the injured. While no casualties have been reported yet, many locls have been injured.

As per reports, the Somalia police has stated that&nbsp;the Shebab jihadist group has claimed responsibility of this attack.&nbsp;

The area has been subjected to similar violence in the past few months too with the terrorist group al-Shabab attempting to disrupt peaceful lives of the residents frequently.

(This is a developing story.)

(With inputs from agencies)

A car bomb attack took place near a hotel in Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu, on Sunday. The car bombing was followed by continuous and heavy gunfire at the entrance of the popular hotel.

A car bomb attack took place near a hotel in Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu, on Sunday. The car bombing was followed by continuous and heavy gunfire at the entrance of the popular hotel. "There's an attack under way in a hotel," a police officer Mohamed Adan told the local reporters of AFP. The exchange of fire started immediately after the car bomb exploded at the entrance of the Hotel Afrik. Also read| Five killed, 14 wounded in bomb attack in Somalia's Mogadishu; Al-Shabab claims responsibility Following the car bomb, the police officials reported that several "armed men have raided the building" and there "is an exchange of fire". The onlookers described the bomb as scary and said, "A speeding car exploded near the hotel and checkpoint. The blast shook us and heavy gunfire followed," shopkeeper Ali Abdulahi told Reuters. "I suspect the militants entered Hotel Afrik. That is where the exchange of gunfire is now taking place," he added. Also read| Somalia suicide bombing misses PM but kills several top commanders Emergency services and ambulances were called on the spot of the bombing immediately to cater to the injured. While no casualties have been reported yet, many locls have been injured. As per reports, the Somalia police has stated that the Shebab jihadist group has claimed responsibility of this attack. The area has been subjected to similar violence in the past few months too with the terrorist group al-Shabab attempting to disrupt peaceful lives of the residents frequently. (This is a developing story.) (With inputs from agencies)

Blast and gunfire rock Somalia's capital; Shebab jihadist group claims responsibility

Al-Qaida-linked Somali terror outfit Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near the capital Mogadishu that killed at least five people, media reported Saturday.

The Somalia-based group often targets Mogadishu with suicide bombings and other attacks, and it has exploded bombs against the Turkish military and other targets there in the past. 
 
The blast occurred south of the capital targeting a Turkish-led construction crew laying a tarmac road, Somali news portal Garowe Online reported. Al-Shabaab claimed that the blast killed one Turkish official and two Somali police officers, according to the outlet.

The road project linking Mogadishu to the nearby town of Afgoye was funded by a Qatari donation, with the Turkish construction company securing the contract, Garowe reported.

Somalia has been engulfed in violence since the eruption of a civil war between clan-based armed groups in the early 1990s.&nbsp; 
The situation was further complicated by the emergence of terror groups like Al-Shabaab, linked to al-Qaeda, which regularly carry out bombings and attacks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Al-Qaida-linked Somali terror outfit Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near the capital Mogadishu that killed at least five people, media reported Saturday.

Al-Qaida-linked Somali terror outfit Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near the capital Mogadishu that killed at least five people, media reported Saturday. The Somalia-based group often targets Mogadishu with suicide bombings and other attacks, and it has exploded bombs against the Turkish military and other targets there in the past. The blast occurred south of the capital targeting a Turkish-led construction crew laying a tarmac road, Somali news portal Garowe Online reported. Al-Shabaab claimed that the blast killed one Turkish official and two Somali police officers, according to the outlet. The road project linking Mogadishu to the nearby town of Afgoye was funded by a Qatari donation, with the Turkish construction company securing the contract, Garowe reported. Somalia has been engulfed in violence since the eruption of a civil war between clan-based armed groups in the early 1990s. The situation was further complicated by the emergence of terror groups like Al-Shabaab, linked to al-Qaeda, which regularly carry out bombings and attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Five killed, 14 wounded in bomb attack in Somalia's Mogadishu; Al-Shabab claims responsibility

At least 10 people were killed on Friday in a town in Somalia’s semi autonomous state of Galmudug when a suicide bomber detonated a device at a rally due to be addressed by the country’s prime minister, a security official said.

Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble was on his way to address the rally at a stadium in Galkayo, a town in central Somalia where many residents and security forces had gathered to welcome him before the explosion, Galmudug state security ministry said in a post on its Facebook page.

“Over 10 people died in the blast including three senior military officials, soldiers and civilians,” Major Mohamed Abdirahman, a military officer, told Reuters from Galkayo. Over 20 people were injured, he added.

Senior officials at the site included General Abdiasis Abdullahi Qooje who was commander of a battalion based in Galmudug, Somali state radio SONNA reported.

He said the death toll may rise.

Somalia’s al Qaeda-allied Islamist group al Shabaab, claimed responsibility for the attack and said it was “targeting the apostate prime minister who was visiting the town.”

Among those killed, al Shabaab’s military operations spokesman, Abdiasis Abu Musab, told Reuters, some were U.S.-trained.

The group has been fighting for more than a decade to topple the Horn of Africa’s central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of sharia law.

Farah Ali, a resident of Galkayo who witnessed the bombing, told Reuters in a phone interview the stadium was packed with a huge crowd before the blast.

“I counted seven dead people including soldiers and civilians and over a dozen injured,” he said.

At least 10 people were killed on Friday in a town in Somalia’s semi autonomous state of Galmudug when a suicide bomber detonated a device at a rally due to be addressed by the country’s prime minister, a security official said.

At least 10 people were killed on Friday in a town in Somalia’s semi autonomous state of Galmudug when a suicide bomber detonated a device at a rally due to be addressed by the country’s prime minister, a security official said. Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble was on his way to address the rally at a stadium in Galkayo, a town in central Somalia where many residents and security forces had gathered to welcome him before the explosion, Galmudug state security ministry said in a post on its Facebook page. “Over 10 people died in the blast including three senior military officials, soldiers and civilians,” Major Mohamed Abdirahman, a military officer, told Reuters from Galkayo. Over 20 people were injured, he added. Senior officials at the site included General Abdiasis Abdullahi Qooje who was commander of a battalion based in Galmudug, Somali state radio SONNA reported. He said the death toll may rise. Somalia’s al Qaeda-allied Islamist group al Shabaab, claimed responsibility for the attack and said it was “targeting the apostate prime minister who was visiting the town.” Among those killed, al Shabaab’s military operations spokesman, Abdiasis Abu Musab, told Reuters, some were U.S.-trained. The group has been fighting for more than a decade to topple the Horn of Africa’s central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of sharia law. Farah Ali, a resident of Galkayo who witnessed the bombing, told Reuters in a phone interview the stadium was packed with a huge crowd before the blast. “I counted seven dead people including soldiers and civilians and over a dozen injured,” he said.

Somalia suicide bombing misses PM but kills several top commanders

Somalia cut diplomatic relations with neighbouring Kenya on Tuesday, accusing it of meddling in politics as protests and gunfire erupted in the capital Mogadishu over delayed elections.

Somalia accuses Kenya of meddling in internal affairs

Somalis fear a U.S. decision to withdraw troops from their country will be seen as a victory for al-Qaida-linked militants who have wreaked havoc there for years, and sow the potential for further chaos at an especially delicate moment for Somalia and the region.

Somali presidential elections are scheduled in just two months; war is erupting in neighboring Ethiopia; and the militants, from al-Shabab, are still strong despite years of U.S.-led raids and drone strikes.

The timing of Friday’s Pentagon announcement, some Somalis say, is terrible.

“The fight against global terrorism is still ongoing, and we must still win the battle for peace and security to prevail,” said Ayub Ismail Yusuf, a Somali senator, who called the U.S. decision “untimely” on Twitter. “We must not give up on our successes.”

At Mogadishu University, Abdullahi, a 23-year-old political science student, said he feared al-Shabab will now be able to “strike without fear” in the capital.

“Now their leaders can move easily from place to place with little threat,” he added, asking that his full name be withheld to protect against possible reprisals. He lives near the charred remains of an ice cream parlor blitzed by an al-Shabab suicide bomber Nov. 27, an attack that killed seven people.

The Pentagon said it will “reposition” some of the estimated 700 U.S. troops in Somalia to other parts of East Africa — likely Kenya and Djibouti — and continue to carry out raids against al-Shabab and a smaller cluster of Islamic State group fighters in northern Somalia from bases in neighboring countries.

Drone strikes, which have killed numerous senior and midlevel al-Shabab commanders as well as dozens of civilians, will continue.

President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed of Somalia did not immediately react to the U.S. decision, announced late Friday as part of President Donald Trump’s drive to end what he calls America’s endless wars before leaving office Jan. 20. Whether fears over the withdrawal, which is expected by mid-January, are fully merited is not yet clear.

What seems certain, though, is that the brunt of the changes will be borne by Danab, an elite Somali force that the U.S. military took under its wing after its formation in 2013. Since then, U.S. soldiers have trained and armed the Somali commandos, whose numbers have grown to about 1,000, and have often accompanied them on raids against al-Shabab.

Now Danab will be largely on its own.

Col. Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh, who commanded Danab between 2016 and 2019, said he expected the United States to continue funding and arming the elite force. But the crucial U.S. “advise-and-assist” role — Americans helping Somali officers plan raids and accompanying them into firefights — will not be easily replaced, he said.

“You can launch and stage operations from countries like Djibouti and Kenya, but it’s not the same as being in the country,” Sheikh said. “You can’t train a force remotely.”

Even with years of U.S. support, Somalia has been able to only partially blunt al-Shabab’s potency.

The group controls swaths of southern Somalia, where its fighters ambush and bomb Somalia soldiers and African Union peacekeepers. A recent U.S. government report noted that al-Shabab was involved in 440 violent events in Somalia between July and September — the highest number in two years.

U.S. and Somali pressure has succeeded, though, in stemming sophisticated, large-scale attacks in Mogadishu, said Omar Mahmood, a Somalia analyst at the International Crisis Group, a conflict research organization.

The Somalis were supposed to be standing on their own feet in the coming year. An international plan hashed out in 2017 called for Somali security forces to be operating independently by 2021. That will not happen.

Danab, the main counterterrorism strike force, still relies heavily on U.S. support and has reached only about one-third of its planned size.

The U.S. withdrawal “could have a pretty big impact” Mahmood said. “The American advisory role is invaluable for Danab. This raises concerns it can continue to develop.”

Danab is not the main pillar of Somali security. The government relies heavily on a 19,000-strong force of African Union peacekeepers — although that, too, has been buffeted by uncertainty because of the erupting civil conflict in Ethiopia, which contributes about 4,000 troops.

The U.S. pullout from Somalia may have been inevitable. President-elect Joe Biden has also committed to withdrawing U.S. troops from “forever wars” — open-ended counterterrorism missions that proliferated after 2001.

But Somalia experts warned that Trump’s decision to pull the plug now, as Somalia faces parliamentary elections this month and a presidential vote in February, was a recipe for chaos and maximum damage.

“It’s typical of the Trump administration’s incoherent policy toward Somalia,” said Matt Bryden, a strategic adviser at Sahan Research, a group that specializes in the Horn of Africa. “This is an incomprehensible decision at a time when governments are likely to change in both Somalia and the U.S. It would have made more sense to wait a few months.”

Pentagon assurances that the U.S. will continue to hit al-Shabab from bases outside the country, he said, “look like a brave attempt to put lipstick on a pig.”

Other experts, though, said there is never a good time to leave a fragile country like Somalia.

“It’s probably a good thing if the American relationship with Somalia is not predominantly about a few hundred soldiers,” said Brittany Brown, a former Africa adviser at the National Security Council in the Obama and Trump administrations and now chief of staff for the International Crisis Group. “But like everything with Trump, it’s been so poorly executed.”

Somalia’s turmoil will not be solved by drone strikes or military raids, she said. “It won’t stop until Somalia has a government that can provide services to its people. Until then, al-Shabab will continue to be a threat.”

The presidential election itself faces some uncertainty. The incumbent, Mohamed, has been at loggerheads with Somalia’s regional leaders, and the opposition fears he may try to manipulate the vote.

Without the U.S. troops, the Somalis can still rely on other foreign allies like Qatar, which provides cash and humanitarian aid, and Turkey, which aims to train about 10,000 regular soldiers.

But for the Danab force, the U.S. withdrawal will constitute a “wake-up call,” said Sheikh, its former commander. “They realize they can’t rely on outside help anymore.”

It may also leave the force more prone to political interference, not to mention the corruption that has blighted other Somali security units. And the U.S. departure may deal a blow to morale, raising questions about America’s commitment to their fight.

“A bit of trust will be lost,” Sheikh said. “And it will be really hard to get it back.”

Somalis fear a U.S. decision to withdraw troops from their country will be seen as a victory for al-Qaida-linked militants who have wreaked havoc there for years, and sow the potential for further chaos at an especially delicate moment for Somalia and the region.

Somalis fear a U.S. decision to withdraw troops from their country will be seen as a victory for al-Qaida-linked militants who have wreaked havoc there for years, and sow the potential for further chaos at an especially delicate moment for Somalia and the region. Somali presidential elections are scheduled in just two months; war is erupting in neighboring Ethiopia; and the militants, from al-Shabab, are still strong despite years of U.S.-led raids and drone strikes. The timing of Friday’s Pentagon announcement, some Somalis say, is terrible. “The fight against global terrorism is still ongoing, and we must still win the battle for peace and security to prevail,” said Ayub Ismail Yusuf, a Somali senator, who called the U.S. decision “untimely” on Twitter. “We must not give up on our successes.” At Mogadishu University, Abdullahi, a 23-year-old political science student, said he feared al-Shabab will now be able to “strike without fear” in the capital. “Now their leaders can move easily from place to place with little threat,” he added, asking that his full name be withheld to protect against possible reprisals. He lives near the charred remains of an ice cream parlor blitzed by an al-Shabab suicide bomber Nov. 27, an attack that killed seven people. The Pentagon said it will “reposition” some of the estimated 700 U.S. troops in Somalia to other parts of East Africa — likely Kenya and Djibouti — and continue to carry out raids against al-Shabab and a smaller cluster of Islamic State group fighters in northern Somalia from bases in neighboring countries. Drone strikes, which have killed numerous senior and midlevel al-Shabab commanders as well as dozens of civilians, will continue. President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed of Somalia did not immediately react to the U.S. decision, announced late Friday as part of President Donald Trump’s drive to end what he calls America’s endless wars before leaving office Jan. 20. Whether fears over the withdrawal, which is expected by mid-January, are fully merited is not yet clear. What seems certain, though, is that the brunt of the changes will be borne by Danab, an elite Somali force that the U.S. military took under its wing after its formation in 2013. Since then, U.S. soldiers have trained and armed the Somali commandos, whose numbers have grown to about 1,000, and have often accompanied them on raids against al-Shabab. Now Danab will be largely on its own. Col. Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh, who commanded Danab between 2016 and 2019, said he expected the United States to continue funding and arming the elite force. But the crucial U.S. “advise-and-assist” role — Americans helping Somali officers plan raids and accompanying them into firefights — will not be easily replaced, he said. “You can launch and stage operations from countries like Djibouti and Kenya, but it’s not the same as being in the country,” Sheikh said. “You can’t train a force remotely.” Even with years of U.S. support, Somalia has been able to only partially blunt al-Shabab’s potency. The group controls swaths of southern Somalia, where its fighters ambush and bomb Somalia soldiers and African Union peacekeepers. A recent U.S. government report noted that al-Shabab was involved in 440 violent events in Somalia between July and September — the highest number in two years. U.S. and Somali pressure has succeeded, though, in stemming sophisticated, large-scale attacks in Mogadishu, said Omar Mahmood, a Somalia analyst at the International Crisis Group, a conflict research organization. The Somalis were supposed to be standing on their own feet in the coming year. An international plan hashed out in 2017 called for Somali security forces to be operating independently by 2021. That will not happen. Danab, the main counterterrorism strike force, still relies heavily on U.S. support and has reached only about one-third of its planned size. The U.S. withdrawal “could have a pretty big impact” Mahmood said. “The American advisory role is invaluable for Danab. This raises concerns it can continue to develop.” Danab is not the main pillar of Somali security. The government relies heavily on a 19,000-strong force of African Union peacekeepers — although that, too, has been buffeted by uncertainty because of the erupting civil conflict in Ethiopia, which contributes about 4,000 troops. The U.S. pullout from Somalia may have been inevitable. President-elect Joe Biden has also committed to withdrawing U.S. troops from “forever wars” — open-ended counterterrorism missions that proliferated after 2001. But Somalia experts warned that Trump’s decision to pull the plug now, as Somalia faces parliamentary elections this month and a presidential vote in February, was a recipe for chaos and maximum damage. “It’s typical of the Trump administration’s incoherent policy toward Somalia,” said Matt Bryden, a strategic adviser at Sahan Research, a group that specializes in the Horn of Africa. “This is an incomprehensible decision at a time when governments are likely to change in both Somalia and the U.S. It would have made more sense to wait a few months.” Pentagon assurances that the U.S. will continue to hit al-Shabab from bases outside the country, he said, “look like a brave attempt to put lipstick on a pig.” Other experts, though, said there is never a good time to leave a fragile country like Somalia. “It’s probably a good thing if the American relationship with Somalia is not predominantly about a few hundred soldiers,” said Brittany Brown, a former Africa adviser at the National Security Council in the Obama and Trump administrations and now chief of staff for the International Crisis Group. “But like everything with Trump, it’s been so poorly executed.” Somalia’s turmoil will not be solved by drone strikes or military raids, she said. “It won’t stop until Somalia has a government that can provide services to its people. Until then, al-Shabab will continue to be a threat.” The presidential election itself faces some uncertainty. The incumbent, Mohamed, has been at loggerheads with Somalia’s regional leaders, and the opposition fears he may try to manipulate the vote. Without the U.S. troops, the Somalis can still rely on other foreign allies like Qatar, which provides cash and humanitarian aid, and Turkey, which aims to train about 10,000 regular soldiers. But for the Danab force, the U.S. withdrawal will constitute a “wake-up call,” said Sheikh, its former commander. “They realize they can’t rely on outside help anymore.” It may also leave the force more prone to political interference, not to mention the corruption that has blighted other Somali security units. And the U.S. departure may deal a blow to morale, raising questions about America’s commitment to their fight. “A bit of trust will be lost,” Sheikh said. “And it will be really hard to get it back.”

In Somalia, US troop withdrawal is seen as badly timed

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