2025 Shabelle offensive

On February 20, 2025, al-Shabaab militants attacked four villages in the Middle Shabelle region with vehicles laden with explosives, they captured two villages before the Somali National Army repelled the al-Shabaab militants from two villages in heavy fighting including the village of Ali Ahmed, where at least seven Somali National Army members were killed, twenty al-Shabaab militants, and one local clan fighter were killed.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-20 |title=Somalia says its army, allied militias repel al Shabaab attacks, kill more than 130 |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somalia-says-its-army-allied-militias-repel-al-shabaab-attacks-kill-more-than-2025-02-20/ |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Reuters}} Al-Shabaab militants used VBIED attacks, mortars, and attacked villages from all directions.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-20 |title=مقتل أكثر من 130 مقاتلًا.. الصومال يعلن التصدي لهجوم جديد لحركة الشباب |script-title=ar:مقتل أكثر من 130 مقاتلًا.. الصومال يعلن التصدي لهجوم جديد لحركة الشباب |trans-title=More than 130 fighters were killed. Somalia announces a new attack by Al-Shabaab |url=https://www.alaraby.com/news/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D8%A3%D9%83%D8%AB%D8%B1-%D9%85%D9%86-130-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%8B%D8%A7-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%84-%D9%8A%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D8%B5%D8%AF%D9%8A-%D9%84%D9%87%D8%AC%D9%88%D9%85-%D8%AC%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AF-%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8 |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Al Araby Television Network}} Unnamed commanders of al-Shabaab were killed in the village of Ceel Cali Axmed.{{Cite news |date=2025-02-21 |title=Somalia: Somali Forces Clash With Al-Shabaab in Hirshabelle State, Heavy Casualties Reported |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202502210017.html |access-date=2025-02-21 |work=allAfrica |language=en}} Other villages like El Baraf were attacked, with fighting from pro-government Ma'awisley Abgal clan militia until they retreated and the village of El Baraf fell to al-Shabaab with at least 93 pro-Government deaths.{{Cite web |last=Yusuf |first=Ali |date=2025-02-21 |title=Al-Shabaab Launches Terror Attacks, Seizes Military Trucks in Middle Shabelle |url=https://hornobserver.com/articles/3204/Al-Shabaab-Launches-Terror-Attacks-Seizes-Military-Trucks-in-Middle-Shabelle |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Horn Observer |language=en}}

In total, 130 al-Shabaab militants were killed and the villages of El-Ali, Daaru Nicma, Ali Fooldheere, and Al Kawthar were taken from al-Shabaab after brief moments of capture.{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Somali Army Repels Al-Shabaab Attack, Kills 130 in Middle Shabelle region |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somali-army-repels-al-shabaab-attack-kills-130-in-middle-shabelle-region |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} Weapons, vehicles, and other military equipment were taken from al-Shabaab militants after the confrontation though the exact amount of items were never specified.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-02-20 |title=Somali Govt Claims Victory Over Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle Region |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somali-govt-claims-victory-over-al-shabaab-in-middle-shabelle-region/ |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}

File:Al-Shabaab fighters in El Baraf.jpg, February 21]] According to General Ibrahim Mumin, the commander of the 3rd division of the Somali National Army, al-Shabaab failed at its attempt at capturing major villages the Middle Shabelle region.{{Cite web |last=Hassan |first=Mohamed Olad |date=2025-02-20 |title=Somali government says attacks on bases repulsed, 130 militants killed |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/somali-government-says-attacks-on-bases-repulsed-130-militants-killed/7982300.html |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Voice of America |language=en}} Al-Shabaab has claimed they took over four military bases in the Middle Shabelle area and Ali Ahmed, Daru Nicma, Kevser and Ali Fol Dheer settlements.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-20 |title=Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Claims 'Sweeping' Attacks Against Government Militias in Somalia's Middle Shabelle Province, Taking Over Four Towns |url=https://www.memri.org/jttm/al-qaeda-affiliate-al-shabab-claims-sweeping-attacks-against-government-militias-somalias |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Middle East Media Research Institute |language=en}} Dozens of Mogadishu administration soldiers were killed and injured in the attacks with al-Shabaab releasing images of the attacks through their media outlet, al-Kataib Media Foundation, with some officers being recorded as captured by al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-20 |title=Somali'den son gelişmeler: Eş Şebab çok sayıda askeri üssü hedef aldı |trans-title=Latest developments from Somalia: Al-Shabaab targets several military bases |url=https://www.mepanews.com/somalide-askeri-uslere-es-zamanli-saldirilar-1-71085h.htm |access-date=2025-02-21 |website=Mepa News |language=tr}}

On February 25, a joint military operation by the Somali government and local forces in Hirshabelle state, south-central Somalia, resulted in the deaths of over 70 al-Shabaab members.{{Cite web |last=Rathaei |date=2025-02-26 |title=Somali Government Claims 70 Al-Shabab Members Killed in Military Operation |url=https://shiawaves.com/english/uncategorized/119565-somali-government-claims-70-al-shabab-members-killed-in-military-operation/ |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Shia Waves |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-02-26 |title=Somali Govt Claims 70 Al-Shabaab Killed in Military Operation |url=https://thedefensepost.com/2025/02/26/somalia-al-shabaab-military-operation/ |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=The Defense Post |language=en-US}} Many of the al-Shabaab members were besieged and killed.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-25 |title=حركة الشباب تتكبد خسائر كبيرة في معارك في إقليمي شبيلي الوسطى وهيران {{!}} الصومال الجديد |script-title=ar:حركة الشباب تتكبد خسائر كبيرة في معارك في إقليمي شبيلي الوسطى وهيران {{!}} الصومال الجديد |trans-title=Al-Shabaab suffers heavy losses in battles in Middle Shabelle and Hiran regions New Somalia |url=https://alsomal.net/%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%AA%D8%AA%D9%83%D8%A8%D8%AF-%D8%AE%D8%B3%D8%A7%D8%A6%D8%B1-%D9%83%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%83/ |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Al Somal |language=ar}} On the same day, al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for attacks in the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions of Somalia, seizing weapons and military vehicles. Militants launched a surprise attack on the Aboorey area in Hiiraan, targeting Macawisley militia members and claiming to have inflicted casualties and captured vehicles, though militia officials also reported inflicting losses on the attackers.{{Cite web |last=Murad |first=Ahmed |date=2025-02-26 |title=الصومال.. مقتل 70 من حركة الشباب في هجوم للجيش |script-title=ar:الصومال.. مقتل 70 من حركة الشباب في هجوم للجيش |trans-title=Somalia: 70 Al-Shabaab members killed in an army attack |url=https://www.aletihad.ae/news/%D8%B9%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%88%D8%AF%D9%88%D9%84%D9%8A/4555162/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%84---%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-70-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%87%D8%AC%D9%88%D9%85-%D9%84%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%8A%D8%B4 |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Al-Etihad News Center |language=ar-AE}} Simultaneously, al-Shabaab assaulted multiple areas in Middle Shabelle, causing civilians to flee, and re-entered the El Ahmed and al-Kowthar areas, establishing a continued presence. Rising fear is reported in Aadan Yabaal, formerly held by government forces and the Ma'awisley militia.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-26 |title=Somalia: Al-Shabaab Carries Out Attacks in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle, Civilians Flee |url=https://hornobserver.com/articles/3216/Somalia-Al-Shabaab-Carries-Out-Attacks-in-Hiiraan-and-Middle-Shabelle-Civilians-Flee |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Horn Observer |language=English}} Through these attacks, al-Shabaab took two villages including Ali Ahmed.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-25 |title=In Photos: Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Reports Takeover Of Two Towns In Southern Somalia |url=https://www.memri.org/jttm/photos-al-qaeda-affiliate-al-shabab-reports-takeover-two-towns-southern-somalia |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Middle East Media Research Institute |language=en}}

On February 26, al-Shabaab fighters attacked Balad district in the Middle Shabelle region early, entering the town from multiple directions and engaging Somali federal government forces in heavy fighting. While the extent of casualties remains unclear, government-run media reported that the attack was defeated.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-27 |title=Ra'iisul wasaaraha Itoobiya Abiy Axmed oo maanta Muqdisho tagaya, iyo waxyaabaha la filayo in ay ka wadahadlaan isaga iyo madaxda Soomaaliya |trans-title=Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is going to Mogadishu today, and the things expected to be discussed between him and the leaders of Somalia |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/live/c2ljj0nr55wt?post=asset:82afdc5e-8f1b-4c2e-89a6-f30de2d45bc4&post=asset:82afdc5e-8f1b-4c2e-89a6-f30de2d45bc4#asset:82afdc5e-8f1b-4c2e-89a6-f30de2d45bc4 |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=BBC News |language=so}} Al-Shabaab militants attacked military bases in the Balad district.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-27 |title=حركة الشباب تهاجم مواقع عسكرية في وسط الصومال |script-title=ar:حركة الشباب تهاجم مواقع عسكرية في وسط الصومال |trans-title=Al-Shabaab attacks military sites in central Somalia |url=https://www.masrawy.com/news/news_publicaffairs/details/2025/2/27/2734884/%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%AA%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%AC%D9%85-%D9%85%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%82%D8%B9-%D8%B9%D8%B3%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%88%D8%B3%D8%B7-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%84 |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Masrawy |language=ar}}

On February 27, mortar shells were fired from the Middle Shabelle area at Mogadishu ahead of a planned visit by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-02-27 |title=Somalia: Mortar shells rain down around Mogadishu airport |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somalia-mortar-shells-rain-down-around-mogadishu-airport/ |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}} On the same day, fighting began in the town of Balad located 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) north of Mogadishu, with al-Shabaab militants capturing the town after storming a military base located near the town.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-27 |title=Wararkii ugu dambeeyay dagaal culus oo ka dhacay gudaha Balcad |trans-title=Latest news on heavy fighting in Balcad |url=https://hiiraan.com/news/2025/Feb/wararka_maanta27-189465.htm |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=so}}{{Cite web |date=2025-02-28 |title=Al-Shabaab Captures Balcad, 30km from Somali Capital, During Ethiopian PM's Visit |url=https://hornobserver.com/articles/3220/Al-Shabaab-Captures-Balcad-30km-from-Somali-Capital-During-Ethiopian-PMs-Visit |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=Horn Observer |language=English}}{{Cite web |date=2025-02-28 |title=Al-Shabaab Captures Balcad, 30km from Somali Capital, During Ethiopian PM's Visit |url=https://en.kaabtv.com/al-shabaab-captures-balcad-30km-from-somali-capital-during-ethiopian-pms-visit/ |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=Kaab TV |language=en-US}} The militants temporarily seized control of key government buildings and infrastructure,{{Cite web |last=Jama |date=2025-02-27 |title=Al-Shabab Escalates Attacks In and Around Mogadishu |url=https://thesomalidigest.com/al-shabab-escalates-attacks-in-and-around-mogadishu/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=The Somali Digest |language=en-US}} and also freed prisoners from the local prison before later withdrawing from the town.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-02-27 |title=Al-Shabaab militants briefly capture Bal'ad town near Somalia's capital |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/al-shabaab-militants-briefly-capture-balad-town-near-somalias-capital/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}}

On March 1, heavy clashes ensued between Somali forces and al-Shabaab militants in Biyo Adde, a town in Middle Shabelle region, after al-Shabaab launched an assault against government checkpoints,{{Cite web |date=2025-03-01 |title=Heavy clashes between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab in Biyo Adde |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200467/heavy_clashes_between_somali_forces_and_al_shabaab_in_biyo_adde.aspx |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} with al-Shabaab publishing images of its fighters occupying the town.{{Cite web |last=Weiss |first=Caleb |date=2025-03-03 |title=Shabaab mounts coordinated assault north of Mogadishu |url=https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2025/03/shabaab-mounts-coordinated-assault-north-of-mogadishu.php |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=FDD's Long War Journal |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=شهادة |first=وكالة |date=2025-03-02 |title=الكتائب تنشر صورا لسيطرة مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين على مدينة بيوعدي بولاية شبيلي الوسطى جنوب الصومال |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%A6%D8%A8-%D8%AA%D9%86%D8%B4%D8%B1-%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7-%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%8A-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7-3/ |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}} Al-Shabaab militants also attacked a house occupied by SNA commanders and soldiers in Kahda district, Mogadishu.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Maxaan ka Ognahay Weeraradii ay Al-Shabaab Fuliyeen Bishan Barakeysan ee Ramadaan. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/maxaan-ka-ognahay-weeraradii-ay-al-shabaab-fuliyeen-bishan-barakeysan-ee-ramadaan/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab militants also ambushed federal troops on the road between Mogadishu and Balcad, killing three and seizing weapons and motorcycles. Al-Shabaab also encircled the town of Jowhar, the administrative capital of the Hirshabelle state and located approximately 91 kilometers north of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.{{Cite web |last=Somalia |first=F. T. L. |date=2025-03-01 |title=Al-Shabaab Militants Surround Jowhar Town - Somali News today Live |url=https://www.ftlsomalia.com/al-shabaab-militants-surround-jowhar-town/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=FTL Somalia |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-01 |title=Somalia: Al-Shabaab militants encircle Hirshabelle state capital - Shabelle TV {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/somalia-al-shabaab-militants-encircle-hirshabelle-state-capital-shabelle-tv/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}}

On March 2, the Somali National Army completed an operation that killed around 40 al-Shabaab members.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-03 |title=Daybreak Africa: Somali security forces kill dozens of al Shabab fighters |url=https://www.voaafrica.com/a/7977161.html |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=Voice of America |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-02 |title=More than 40 al Shabaab members killed by Somali security forces, SNTV says |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/more-than-40-al-shabaab-members-killed-by-somali-security-forces-sntv-says-2025-03-02/ |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=Reuters}} Al-Shabaab also fired mortars at SNA positions in Adan Yabaal town.

On March 3, the United States assisted with airstrikes against al-Shabaab during this operation near the El Baraf area in the Middle Shabelle region during clashes in Biyaadde according to an AFRICOM report, with Hirshabelle Vice President Yusuf Ahmed Hagar Dabageed saying "the fight will continue and will not stop until al-Shabaab is defeated."{{Cite web |date=2025-03-03 |title=Duqeymo la sheegay in al-Shabaab lagula beegsaday Hirshabeelle iyo Mareykanka oo war kasoo saaray |trans-title=Airstrikes reportedly targeting al-Shabaab in Hirshabelle and US releases statement |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/c2d4572gnd8o |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=BBC News |language=so}} On the same day, al-Shabaab militants did coordinated attacks against Somali troops killing 60 Somali soldiers north of Mogadishu across several towns,{{Cite web |last=Weiss |first=Caleb |date=2025-03-03 |title=Shabaab mounts coordinated assault north of Mogadishu |url=https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2025/03/shabaab-mounts-coordinated-assault-north-of-mogadishu.php |access-date=2025-03-04 |website=FDD's Long War Journal |language=en-US}} though al-Shabaab claims they killed 100.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-03 |title=مقتل وإصابة قرابة 100 عنصر من الميليشيات الحكومية على يد مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين خلال أقل من 12 ساعة |script-title=ar:مقتل وإصابة قرابة 100 عنصر من الميليشيات الحكومية على يد مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين خلال أقل من 12 ساعة |trans-title=Nearly 100 government militia members killed and injured by Al-Shabaab fighters in less than 12 hours |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D9%88%D8%A5%D8%B5%D8%A7%D8%A8%D8%A9-%D9%82%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%A8%D8%A9-100-%D8%B9%D9%86%D8%B5%D8%B1-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%8A%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%B4%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AA/ |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar|last1= شهادة|first1= وكالة}} These offensives have pushed closer to Mogadishu with these being the deadliest offensive by al-Shabaab in several years.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-04 |title=Shabaab's deadliest offensive in months pushes toward Mogadishu |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200516/shabaab_s_deadliest_offensive_in_months_pushes_toward_mogadishu.aspx |access-date=2025-03-04 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} On the same day as well, Somali government forces, backed by local clan militias known as Macwiisley, repelled an attack by al-Shabaab militants in the Boos-Hareeri area of the Adan Yabal district.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-03-03 |title=Somali Government Forces Repel Al-Shabaab Attack |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somali-government-forces-repel-al-shabaab-attack/ |access-date=2025-03-04 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab recaptured Boos-Hareeri later that day, killing 20 SNA soldiers and wounding 13 others. Al-Shabaab also captured the town of El Ali Ahmed killing 18 SNA soldiers and wounding 36.

On March 4, al-Shabaab militants captured the village of War Ciise, located 25 km from the provincial capital Jowhar, without a fight after Somali government forces fled, publishing images of militants patrolling the village.{{Cite web |last=شهادة |first=وكالة |date=2025-03-06 |title=الكتائب توثق سيطرة مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين على منطقة ورعيسي القريبة من جوهر بولاية شبيلي الوسطى جنوب الصومال |trans-title=Al-Kataeb documents the control of Al-Shabaab fighters over the War Isse area near Jowhar In Middle Shabelle region, southern Somalia |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%A6%D8%A8-%D8%AA%D9%88%D8%AB%D9%82-%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%8A-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-3/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}}

On March 5, al-Shabaab militants continued their advance towards Mogadishu through the Middle Shabelle, after the capturing of Balcad they continued south to Mogadishu.{{Cite web |last=Jarriri |first=Nihad |date=2025-03-05 |title=جماعة الشباب الصومالية تقترب من مقديشو.. هل نحن أمام سيناريو طالبان جديد؟ |script-title=ar:جماعة الشباب الصومالية تقترب من مقديشو.. هل نحن أمام سيناريو طالبان جديد؟ |trans-title=Al-Shabaab approaches Mogadishu.. Are we facing a new Taliban scenario? |url=https://www.akhbaralaan.net/jihadi-observatory/2025/03/05/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%B5%D8%AF-283-%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D9%82%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%A8-%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%B4%D9%88-%D9%87%D9%84-%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%86-%D8%A3%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%B3%D9%8A%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%88-%D8%B7%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%AC%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AF%D8%9F |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Akhbar Alaan |language=ar}} That same day the Ethiopian Air Force conducted multiple airstrikes on al-Shabaab targets in the Middle Shabelle region,{{Cite web |title=Diyaaradaha dagaalka Itoobiya oo duqeymo ka fuliyay gobolka shabeellada dhexe – Goobjoog |trans-title=Ethiopian warplanes carry out airstrikes in Middle Shabelle region |url=https://goobjoog.com/2025/03/06/diyaaradaha-dagaalka-itoobiya-oo-duqeymo-ka-fuliyay-gobolka-shabeellada-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Goobjoog |language=so}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-05 |title=Ethiopia's air force joins strikes against Al-Shabaab in Somalia's Middle Shabelle region |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/ethiopias-air-force-joins-strikes-against-al-shabaab-in-somalias-middle-shabelle-region/#:~:text=MOGADISHU%20(Somaliguardian)%20%E2%80%93%20Ethiopia's%20air,recaptured%20from%20the%20Somali%20army. |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Somaliguardian |language=en-US}} marked Ethiopia's first known aerial operation in Somalia in nearly two decades since its 2006 intervention against the Islamic Courts Union. However, despite airstrikes al-Shabaab militants have largely retained their positions, with ground offensives by Somali forces and allied Ma'awisley militias yet to dislodge al-Shabaab from its newly captured territories. Al-Shabaab also launched an attack on federal positions in Yaqshid district.

On March 6, the federal government deployed reinforcements to Middle Shabelle region to intensify its military operations in the area against al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-06 |title=Federal government deploys reinforcements to Middle Shabelle region to intensify military operations |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200558/federal_government_deploys_reinforcements_to_middle_shabelle_region_to_intensify_military_operations.aspx |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Federal government officials also visit the town of Bal'ad to boost morale of federal troops.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-06 |title=Masuuliyiin Katirsan Dowladda Fedaraalka oo Tagay Balcad si ay Niyada Ugu Dhisaan Ciidankooda. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |trans-title=Senior Federal Government Officials Visit Balad to Boost Morale of Their Troops |url=https://radioalfurqaan.net/masuuliyiin-katirsan-dowladda-fedaraalka-oo-tagay-balcad-si-ay-niyada-ugu-dhisaan-ciidankooda/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}}

On March 7, al-Shabaab militants attacked and recaptured al-Kowthar in the Boos-Hareri area in the Aden Yabal district after battling Somali forces, killing several and injuring several, including Colonel Saney Abdulle.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=DEG-DEG: Al-Shabaab oo al Wareegay Deegaanka Al-Kowthar ee Gobalka Sh-dhexe. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |trans-title=BREAKING: Al-Shabaab seizes Al-Kowthar village in the Middle Shabelle region |url=https://radioalfurqaan.net/deg-deg-al-shabaab-oo-al-wareegay-deegaanka-al-kowthar-ee-gobalka-sh-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=Dagaallo Lagu Jabiyay Ciidamada Dowladda Fedaraalka oo Maanta ka Dhacay Sh/Dhexe |trans-title=Fighting breaks out in Middle Shabelle today against Federal Government forces |url=https://radioalfurqaan.net/dagaallo-lagu-jabiyay-ciidamada-dowladda-fedaraalka-oo-maanta-ka-dhacay-sh-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}} Several military vehicles were captured from the Somali soldiers by al-Shabaab including one with a Zu-23 anti-aircraft gun attached to it.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-08 |title=Al-Shabaab militants capture two key towns in Somalia's Middle Shabelle region |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/al-shabaab-militants-capture-two-key-towns-in-somalias-middle-shabelle-region/ |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} The group also published images of its fighters in the town and the government militia base there.{{Cite web |last=شهادة |first=وكالة |date=2025-03-07 |title=صور سيطرة مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين على بلدة الكوثر بضاحية مدينة آدم يبال بولاية شبيلي الوسطى جنوب الصومال |trans-title=Images of fighters from the Al-Shabaab movement taking control of the town of Al-Kowthar, in the suburb of Adan Yabal in the Middle Shabelle region of southern Somalia |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%B1-%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%8A-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87%D8%AF%D9%8A/ |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}} Al-Shabaab fighters also launched attacks on the Boos-Hareri village itself,{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=AlShabaab oo weerartay deegaanka Boos-Hareeri ee gobolka Sh/dhexe |url=https://www.jowhar.com/news/alshabaab-oo-weerartay-deegaanka-boos-hareeri-ee-gobolka-sh-dhexe.html#google_vignette |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=Jowhar {{!}} Somali News, Articles and Entertainment}} with Harun Maruf reporting its re-capture.{{Cite web |last=Maruf |first=Harun |title=Al-Shabaab fighters reportedly recaptured new areas in Middle Shabelle region within the past 24 hours including Al-Kawthar and Boos-Hareeri – sources |url=https://x.com/HarunMaruf/status/1898108350069400040 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}} On the same day, the Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nuur confirmed Ethiopian airstrikes carried out against al-Shabaab militants in the Middle Shabelle with coordination from the Federal Government of Somalia.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=Ethiopian Airstrikes Hit Al-Shabaab Targets in Somalia, Minister Confirms |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/ethiopian-airstrikes-hit-al-shabaab-targets-in-somalia-minister-confirms |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} Former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble stated that the Federal Government is currently facing a difficult situation and needs to cooperate with the opposition and the conservatives, otherwise the country will be taken over by al-Shabaab. He also stated that apart from the Middle Shabelle region where heavy fighting is ongoing, there are fears that major battles will spread to other regions by al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=Maxamed Xuseen Rooble oo Sheegay in Dowladda Fedaraalka ay Wajaheyso Xaalad Adag. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radioalfurqaan.net/maxamed-xuseen-rooble-oo-sheegay-in-dowladda-fedaraalka-ay-wajaheyso-xaalad-adag/ |access-date=2025-03-08 |language=en-US}} The Somalian government also banned weapons and military vehicles from entering Aden Adde International Airport driven by security concerns raised by the Americans.{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Somalia Bans Weapons at Mogadishu Airport After U.S. Warns of Al-Shabaab Attack |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-bans-weapons-at-mogadishu-airport-after-u-s-warns-of-al-shabaab-attack |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=شهادة |first=وكالة |date=2025-03-08 |title=الحكومة الصومالية تحظر الأسلحة في مطار مقديشو بعد تحذير الولايات المتحدة من هجوم متوقع لحركة الشباب المجاهدين |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D8%AD%D8%B8%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%85%D8%B7%D8%A7/ |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}}

On March 8, the Ethiopian Air Force continued its air strikes against al-Shabaab militants in the Middle Shabelle region in Somalia with cooperation from the Somali government.{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Ciidamada Cirka Itoobiya oo Duqeymo ka Fuliyeey Gobolka Shabeellaha Dhexe ee Soomaaliya |trans-title=Ethiopian Air Force has been in the heart of Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/ciidamada-cirka-itoobiya-oo-duqeymo-ka-fuliyeey-gobolka-shabeellaha-dhexe-ee-soomaaliya |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=Garowe Online |language=so}} The Ethiopian government also deployed a large number of Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) near the border town of Ferfer in preparation for upcoming military operations targeting al-Shabaab militants in the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions.{{Cite web |title=Ethiopian forces deployed near Somalia border ahead of operations against Al-Shabaab |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200586/ethiopian_forces_deployed_near_somalia_border_ahead_of_operations_against_al_shabaab.aspx |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}} Near the Boos-Hareri region, Somali soldiers conducted a military operation killing 20 al-Shabaab militants.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-08 |title=Somali forces kill 20 Al-Shabaab militants in Middle Shabelle region |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200584/somali_forces_kill_20_al_shabaab_militants_in_middle_shabelle_region.aspx |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab killed, Abukar Abdulle 'Garmaqate', a senior police commander and 1st Brigade commander of the Police, and overran the villages of Bursha Sheekh, Ceel Xarar, Laba Garas and Xaruur, located near the strategic town of Adale, approximately 70 kilometers northeast of Mogadishu.{{Cite web |last=𝕯𝖗. 𝐗𝐈𝐃𝐃𝐈𝐆 |date=2025-03-08 |title=Al Shabaab Captures Villages Near Mogadishu, Prompting Somalia's Plea for Ethiopian Intervention |url=https://www.idilnews.com/al-shabaab-captures-villages-near-mogadishu-prompting-somalias-plea-for-ethiopian-intervention/ |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=Idil News |language=en-US}} The militant also released images of their fighters in Balad during their temporary occupation of the town on February 28.{{Cite web |last=شهادة |first=وكالة |date=2025-03-08 |title=الكتائب الإخبارية تنشر إصدارا يوثق هجوم مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين المثخن في الميليشيات الحكومية في بلعد |trans-title=Al-Kataeb News Publishes A Release Documenting The Heavy Attack By Al-Shabaab Fighters On Government Militias In Balad |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%A6%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D9%86%D8%B4%D8%B1-%D8%A5%D8%B5%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A7-%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%AB%D9%82-%D9%87%D8%AC/ |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}} Somalian officials also confirmed the death of Yusuf Dhegnaas, a senior al-Shabaab leader, in a targeted airstrike in the El Ba'ad area of the Middle Shabelle region on March 5.{{Cite web |title=Al-Shabaab leader killed in targeted airstrike in Middle Shabelle |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200588/al_shabaab_leader_killed_in_targeted_airstrike_in_middle_shabelle.aspx |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}}

On March 9, Mukhtar Robow, Somalia's Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs and himself a former deputy leader and former spokesman of al-Shabaab before defecting in 2017, dismissed fears that Mogadishu could fall to al-Shabaab militants in a statement, declaring that the group has lost its ability to mount a serious threat to the capital. He also rejected comparisons between al-Shabaab and extremist groups in Syria, insisting that Somalia is not on the brink of collapse stating "Mogadishu is neither Kabul nor Damascus, and Ahmed Diiriye is no Ahmed al-Sharaa".{{Cite web |title=Minister Robow: Mogadishu will not fall to Al-Shabaab |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200601/somali_minister_robow_mogadishu_will_not_fall_to_al_shabaab.aspx?utm_source=hiiraan&utm_medium=SomaliNewsUpdateFront |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}} Somalia's Deputy Minister of Defence, Omar Ali Abdi, also revealed that senior government officials within the administration have been sharing sensitive military intelligence directly with al-Shabaab militants.{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Somali Minister Reveals High-ranking Officers Sharing Military Intelligence with Al-Shabaab |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somali-minister-reveals-high-ranking-officers-sharing-military-intelligence-with-al-shabaab |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} Al-Shabaab engaged in clashes with government forces killing multiple and injuring thirty six, capturing one as a prisoner of war and seizing a Bika machine gun and seven Kalashnikov rifles, in the village of Ali Ahmed, repelling five other attacks and reasserting control of the area.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-09 |title=الكتائب الإخبارية تنقل اللقطات الحية لتصدي مقاتلي حركة الشباب لهجمات الميليشيات الحكومية وإثخانها فيها |script-title=ar:الكتائب الإخبارية تنقل اللقطات الحية لتصدي مقاتلي حركة الشباب لهجمات الميليشيات الحكومية وإثخانها فيها |trans-title=Al-Kataeb News broadcasts live footage of Al-Shabaab fighters confronting and inflicting heavy losses on government militias |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%A6%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D9%86%D9%82%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%82%D8%B7%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D9%8A%D8%A9/ |access-date=2025-03-11 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar |last1=شهادة |first1=وكالة }} Al-Shabaab also attacked the town of Hareeri Caadley, killing its government-appointed mayor.

File:Al-Shabaab fighters in Bal'ad, Somalia.jpg, February 27]]

On March 10, the Somali Air Force, specifically the 143rd Unit of the 14th October Brigade, executed an airstrike against al-Shabaab militants in the Baladul Amin area, one of the areas under the Afgooye district killing an al-Shabaab leader that was later identified as Da'uud Mohamed Maleele, who is known as the emir of zakat tax collection of the Baladul Amin area in Afgooye district.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-10 |title=Horjooge ka tirsanaa kooxda Al-shabaab oo lagu dilay gobolka Shabeellaha Hoose |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta10-189581.htm |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=www.hiiraan.com}} On the same day, an airstrike coordinated by the Somali National Army targeted makeshift bridges by al-Shabaab which were used to connect regions together and make movements by al-Shabaab easier.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-10 |title=Airstrike destroys Al-Shabaab's makeshift bridge in Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/airstrike-destroys-al-shabaab-s-makeshift-bridge-in-somalia |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} Former deputy director of Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Abdisalam Guled, warned about al-Shabaab's growing threat, stating that al-Shabaab is shifting its methods, aiming to gain public trust while strengthening its territorial hold in central and southern Somalia, particularly in Hirshabelle. He also noted that al-Shabaab is using strategies similar to those seen with the Taliban in their takeover of Afghanistan and Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham in Syria's conflict, hoping to establish its own governing authority.{{Cite web |title=Former NISA chief warns of Al-Shabaab's growing threat to Somalia's stability |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200623/former_nisa_chief_warns_of_al_shabaab_s_growing_threat_to_somalia_s_stability.aspx?utm_source=hiiraan&utm_medium=SomaliNewsUpdateFront |access-date=2025-03-11 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}}

File:Al-Shabaab military parade.png

On March 11, al-Shabaab militants bombed a hotel called the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne, capital of the Hiiraan region in the morning time with a vehicle borne improvised explosive device, and launched an hours long inghimasi assault on the hotel.{{Cite news |title=A militant attack on a Somalia hotel leaves an unknown number dead |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/03/11/somalia-beledweyne-hotel-attack/e03568c8-fe69-11ef-b7a7-d938159de2bc_story.html |newspaper=The Washington Post}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-11 |title=Bombe di al-Shabaab in un hotel in Somalia, almeno 10 morti |url=https://www.giornaledibrescia.it/italia-e-estero/bombe-di-al-shabaab-in-un-hotel-in-somalia-almeno-10-morti-osf5215n |access-date=2025-03-11 |website=Giornale di Brescia |language=it}} The hotel houses traditional elders and military officers involved in coordinating the government's offensive against the militant group. The bombing initially killed 4 people (including two well-known traditional elders),{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-03-11 |title=Al-Shabaab attack on Somali hotel leaves at least 4 dead |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/world/2025/03/11/al-shabaab-attack-on-somali-hotel-leaves-at-least-4-dead/ |access-date=2025-03-11 |website=Free Malaysia Today |language=en}} but the death toll increased to 10 civilians killed in the bombing.{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-03-11 |title=Bombe di al-Shabaab in un hotel in Somalia, almeno 10 morti |url=https://www.prealpina.it/pages/bombe-di-al-shabaab-in-un-hotel-in-somalia-almeno-10-morti-371442.html |access-date=2025-03-11 |website=La Prealpina |language=it-IT |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}} Al-Shabaab's military command also issued a statement claiming to have killed 20, including 4 military officers in the operation in Beledweyne, while also claiming to have killed 18 soldiers and wounded 30 others in clashes Bursha Sheekh near Adale. The military command also stated that the operation is ongoing.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-11 |title=Taliska Millatariga ee Al-Shabaab oo Bayaan Kasoo Saaray Howlgallada Hiiraan & Sh-dhexe. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radioalfurqaan.net/taliska-millatariga-ee-al-shabaab-oo-bayaan-kasoo-saaray-howlgallada-hiiraan-sh-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-03-12 |website=radioalfurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On March 12, Somalia's Minister of Defence, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, confirmed that the federal government of Somalia coordinated airstrike operations done by the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia against al-Shabaab and Islamic State in Somalia militants in Puntland's Al Miskaad Mountains and southern Somalia.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-12 |title=Somalia's defence minister confirms UAE, Ethiopia airstrikes on Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200652/somalia_s_defence_minister_confirms_uae_ethiopia_airstrikes_on_al_shabaab_and_isis_militants.aspx |access-date=2025-03-12 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} The Somali National Army claimed the killing of a senior leader and 50 al-Shabaab militants in the Damasha Shabeelow area of the Middle Shabelle region, killing Mansoor Timo-Weyne, who was the group's leader in charge of preparing and using combat vehicles who was also the target for the airstrike.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-12 |title=Ciidanka Xoogga Dalka oo sheegtay dilka horjooge sare iyo 50 Shabaab ah |url=https://www.voasomali.com/a/ciidanka-xoogga-dalka-oo-sheegtay-dilka-horjooge-sare-iyo-50-shabaab-ah-/8007867.html |access-date=2025-03-12 |website=Voice of America |language=so}}

On March 13, Somali forces and local security forces overran al-Shabaab militants targeting a heavily fortified militant base that was being used as a staging ground for attacks on civilian communities in a rural area near El Buur district in central Somalia's Galgaduud region seizing the base and killing several al-Shabaab militants.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-13 |title=Somali forces overrun Al-Shabaab stronghold in El Buur offensive |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200668/somali_forces_overrun_al_shabaab_stronghold_in_ceelbuur_offensive.aspx |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

File:Somali soldiers in Galgaduud 2025.png after an operation against al-Shabaab, March 13]]

On March 14, a series of airstrikes conducted by Somali military forces in coordination with the National Intelligence and Security Agency killed 41 al-Shabaab members, including senior leaders, first in the Boos-Hareeri area of Middle Shabelle which killed 29 al-Shabaab members then the ambaluul area of Lower Shabelle which killed an additional 12 members.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-14 |title=Somalia: At Least 41 Al-Shabaab Members Killed in a Joint Operation, Says NISA |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202503140400.html |access-date=2025-03-14 |website=allAfrica}} Al-Shabaab fired mortar shells at federal positions in Adan Yabal town.

On March 15, al-Shabaab militants took control of the Sumadale area near the town of Adale, afterwards Al-Shabaab reported that 19 members of the Somali army were killed and 10 were injured after soldiers from Mogadishu attempted to target them.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-15 |title=سيطرة مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين على منطقة سوماذالي التابعة لمدينة عَدَلي ومقتل 19 عنصرا من الميليشيات الحكومية |script-title=ar:سيطرة مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين على منطقة سوماذالي التابعة لمدينة عَدَلي ومقتل 19 عنصرا من الميليشيات الحكومية |trans-title=The fighters of Al-Shabaab Mujahideen took control of the Somadali area, which belongs to the city of Adale, and 19 members of the government militias were killed |url=https://shahadanews.info/%d8%b3%d9%8a%d8%b7%d8%b1%d8%a9-%d9%85%d9%82%d8%a7%d8%aa%d9%84%d9%8a-%d8%ad%d8%b1%d9%83%d8%a9-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b4%d8%a8%d8%a7%d8%a8-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%ac%d8%a7%d9%87%d8%af%d9%8a%d9%86-%d8%b9%d9%84/ |access-date=2025-03-15 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}} This figure later rose to 22 deaths (including 10 corpses left behind on the battlefield) and 43 wounded, with the wounded being transferred to the Haji Ali area 7 km away by the group.{{Cite web |last=الإخبارية |first=وكالة شهادة |date=2025-03-15 |title=القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين تعلن السيطرة على مناطق جديدة وتؤكد مقتل وإصابة أكثر من 150 من الميليشيات الحكومية |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B3%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87-6/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}} Another round of clashes in the Laba Garas area led to government forces suffering 7 deaths and 4 injuries, with the group capturing a government technical.

Al-Shabaab also captured Awdheegle and the district associated with it in the Lower Shabelle region including the district bridge, with several Somali soldiers being killed in the process,{{Cite web |date=2025-03-15 |title=بالصور: مقاتلو حركة الشباب المجاهدين يسيطرون بالكامل على مديرية أوديقلي عقب هجوم كاسح |script-title=ar:بالصور: مقاتلو حركة الشباب المجاهدين يسيطرون بالكامل على مديرية أوديقلي عقب هجوم كاسح |trans-title=In Pictures: Al-Shabaab Mujahideen Fighters Take Full Control of Awdheegle District Following A Sweeping Attack |url=https://shahadanews.info/%d8%a8%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b5%d9%88%d8%b1-%d9%85%d9%82%d8%a7%d8%aa%d9%84%d9%88-%d8%ad%d8%b1%d9%83%d8%a9-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b4%d8%a8%d8%a7%d8%a8-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%ac%d8%a7%d9%87%d8%af%d9%8a%d9%86-%d9%8a/ |access-date=2025-03-15 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}} with 31 dead and 38 wounded. The militants overran government forces and captured key infrastructure including the town's main bridge and military barracks.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-15 |title=Al-Shabaab attacks military camps in south Somalia's Awdhegle town {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/al-shabaab-attacks-military-camps-in-south-somalias-awdhegle-town/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} The attacks targeted military installations used by the Somali National Army, with the first of the attacks starting before dawn against the Hawo Abdi area 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Mogadishu, which Somalia with the help from other foreign militaries liberated several towns in the area earlier.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-15 |title=Al-Shabaab launches coordinated attacks in Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/al-shabaab-launches-coordinated-attacks-in-somalia |access-date=2025-03-15 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} The militants also briefly seized the Lafoole neighbourhood of Afgooye and were also seen patrolling the Elasha Biyaha suburb of Mogadishu, both on what is called the "Afgooye corridor"{{Cite news |date=2012-05-25 |title=Somali al-Shabab militant stronghold Afgoye 'captured' |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-18206856 |access-date=2025-03-21 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}} marking the first time in 10 years that al-Shabaab is approaching Mogadishu.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-15 |title=Somalia: 3 civilians killed in an AlShabab ambush at Lafoole area, South of Mogadishu |url=https://hornobserver.com/articles/3239/Somalia-3-civilians-killed-in-an-AlShabab-ambush-at-Lafoole-area-South-of-Mogadishu |access-date=2025-03-16 |website=hornobserver.com |language=English}}{{Cite web |last=Gacal |first=Zahra Axmed |date=2025-03-15 |title=Xog xasaasi ah: Al-Shabaab oo caawa soo galay Ceelasha Biyaha – Maxaa ka socda dalka? |url=https://www.caasimada.net/xog-xasaasi-ah-al-shabaab-oo-caawa-soo-galay-ceelasha-biyaha-maxaa-ka-socda-dalka/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |language=en-US}} Over 150 government soldiers died or were wounded in these attacks. Later that night the Ethiopian air force launched airstrikes using barrel bombs filled with fuel, targeting the towns of El-Ba'ad and Jilib. The initial strike struck El Ba'ad, killing a mother and her two children, while the second air raid targeted Jilib, the de facto al-Shabaab capital. The strike focused on the town's bustling market, which engulfed in flames, and a university established by the militant group for Islamic sharia studies.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-16 |title=Ethiopia's air force unleashes barrel bombs on two towns in south Somalia {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/ethiopias-air-force-unleashes-barrel-bombs-on-two-towns-in-south-somalia/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=الإخبارية |first=وكالة شهادة |date=2025-03-16 |title=الطيران الحربي الإثيوبي يقصف سوقا شعبيا وجامعة بالبراميل المتفجرة ويقتل أما وابنتيها في عدوان جديد على سكان الولايات الإسلامية |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B7%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AB%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%8A%D9%82%D8%B5%D9%81-%D8%B3%D9%88%D9%82%D8%A7-%D8%B4%D8%B9%D8%A8/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}}

File:Al-Shabaab insurgent attacking Awdheegle during 2025 Ramadan Offensive.png

On March 16, heavily armed al-Shabaab militants were spotted patrolling the road linking Mogadishu and Afgoye for the second consecutive night on Saturday, manning security checkpoints and searching vehicles.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-16 |title=Fall of Mogadishu 'real possibility' as militants encroach on its limits {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/fall-of-mogadishu-real-possibility-as-militants-encroach-on-its-limits/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab militants seized Elasha Biyaha (Water Wells) area just outside Mogadishu, with federal troops, who offered no resistance, withdrawing and regrouping at the Siin-Dheer base, situated between the Water Wells and Tareedisho areas.{{Cite web |last=WDN |date=2025-03-16 |title=Al-Shabaab Seizes Strategic Water Wells Near Mogadishu, Raising Security Fears |url=https://wardheernews.com/al-shabaab-seizes-strategic-water-wells-near-mogadishu-raising-security-fears/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=WardheerNews |language=en-US}} The militants swiftly occupied key locations, cut power to main streets, and instructed residents to remain indoors. The group also publicly vowed to capture Mogadishu by the 17th of Ramadan Hijri (March 17). That same day al-Shabaab released a press statement revealing the civilian casualties of the Ethiopian air strikes of the night before.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-16 |title=Al-Shabaab oo Warsaxaafadeed Kasoo Saaray Duqeymo ay Xabashidu ku Leysay Dad Shacab ah. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radioalfurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-warsaxaafadeed-kasoo-saaray-duqeymo-ay-xabashidu-ku-leysay-dad-shacab-ah/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=radioalfurqaan.net |language=en-US}} The federal government also mobilized and deployed a contingent of the Somali Custodial Corps, traditionally responsible for safeguarding prisoners and thus untrained for combat, to Lower Shabelle region to support the federal government's defense near Awdheegle.{{Cite web |last=Gacal |first=Zahra Axmed |date=2025-03-16 |title=Daawo: Taliye SHUB oo ciidankii ugu dambeeyey ee Asluubta u diray dagaalka |url=https://www.caasimada.net/daawo-taliye-shub-oo-ciidankii-ugu-dambeeyey-ee-asluubta-u-diray-dagaalka/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |language=en-US}} That same day al-Shabaab released a message from an SNA soldier who was captured by the group during their Cadaan Laxey attack. In the recording, the soldier states that his unit panicked, fled, and abandoned him during the assault, further highlighting the lack of coordination and morale within government forces.{{Cite web |last=Qoobey |first=Jibril |date=2025-03-16 |title=Captured Somali Soldier Exposes Low Morale and Betrayal Within Government Forces |url=https://www.idilnews.com/captured-somali-soldier-exposes-low-morale-and-betrayal-within-government-forces/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=Idil News |language=en-US}}

On March 17, the Somali Air Force conducted heavy airstrikes against al-Shabaab members in Jilib and around the Jilib District, where 20 senior and middle-ranking leaders and about 100 militia members were killed while they were holding a meeting.{{Cite web |title=Dowladda Fedaraalka oo shaacisay in 120 xubnood looga dilay Al-shabaab duqeymo ka dhacay degmada Jilib |trans-title=The Federal Government announced that 120 Al-Shabaab members were killed in an airstrike in Jilib district |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta17-189656.htm |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=so}} These airstrikes also destroyed six military bases in the area of Jilib.{{Cite web |last=Somalia |first=F. T. L. |date=2025-03-17 |title=Six Al-Shabaab Bases in Jubbaland Destroyed in Latest SNA Airstrikes – Somali News today Live |url=https://www.ftlsomalia.com/six-al-shabaab-bases-in-jubbaland-destroyed-in-latest-sna-airstrikes/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=FTL Somalia |language=en-US}} The Somali National Army repelled an attack against military positions in Awdheegle District of Lower Shabelle and the Buursha Sheekh area of Middle Shabelle, where the al-Shabaab militants suffered substantial losses.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-17 |title=Somali army counters terrorist attack by Al-Shabaab militias |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200729/somali_army_counters_terrorist_attack_by_al_shabaab_militias.aspx |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab also launched an attack on federal forces in the village of Nuur-Gaab near Adale, killing three SNA soldiers and wounding another three.

On March 18, the Federal Somali government issued a warning to all civilians in Jilib in the Middle Juba region to avoid targeted areas in the district and other areas controlled by al-Shabaab, this was given out through a press release that said "The attack in Jilib is part of the Federal Government of Somalia's operations targeting the remnants of terrorist groups hiding in limited areas of the country. As confirmed, no civilians were harmed in the Jilib attack. The people living in Jilib district and other areas where terrorists are taking refuge are once again called upon to stay away from enemy targets to prevent civilian casualties,".{{Cite web |date=2025-03-18 |title=Dowladda Federaalka oo digniin u dirtay dadka ku nool degmada Jilib iyo deegaanada kale ee Al-shabaab maamulaan |trans-title=The Federal Government has issued a warning to people living in Jilib district and other areas controlled by Al-Shabaab. |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta18-189674.htm |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=so}} On the same day, Turkey delivered Baykar Bayraktar Akıncı to Somalia, which are capable of carrying out airstrikes, strengthening the country's operations against al-Shabaab, with the Qatari government selling planes to Somalia for a price of up to $8 million.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-18 |title=Qatar oo $8 million labo diyaradooda ugu iibisay dowladda Soomaaliya |trans-title=Qatar sells two of its planes to the Somali government for $8 million |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/qatar-oo-8-million-labo-diyaradooda-ugu-iibisay-dowladda-soomaaliya |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Garowe Online |language=so}} In order to help with the fight against al-Shabaab, the Somali Government ordered hundreds of Somali police forces to the frontlines against the offensive, General Asad Osman Abdullahi, the chief of Somalia's Police Force, spearheading this operation as he created the send-off.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-18 |title=Hundreds of Somali Police Deployed to Frontlines of Middle Shabelle to Fight Al-Shabaab – Somali News today Live |url=https://www.ftlsomalia.com/hundreds-of-somali-police-deployed-to-frontlines-of-middle-shabelle-to-fight-al-shabaab/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=FTL Somalia |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab started making incursions onto Balcad road, a long road that connecting Mogadishu to Balad, with heavy fighting breaking out on the road between al-Shabaab militants and Somali government forces, when al-Shabaab first arrived in the area known as Aargada Hareeri Aadle, between Balad and Mogadishu, where 20 Somali government forces from Aliyale attempted to push al-Shabaab back, al-Shabaab entered the Elasha Biyaha area on the night of March 17, making movements there, then retreating. They were also seen in the Lafoole and Xawo Abdi areas in the Afgooye corridor between Mogadishu and Afgooye.{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-03-18 |title=Maleeshiyada Al-Shabaab oo soo galay waddada Balcad iyo dagaal culus oo qarxay |trans-title=Al-Shabaab militants enter Balcad road and heavy fighting breaks out |url=https://www.caasimada.net/al-shabaab-oo-soo-galay-waddada-balcad-iyo-dagaal-culus-oo-qarxay/ |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Caasimada Online |language=so}} Al-Shabaab has also claimed responsibility for the bombing of the Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed's convoy near Villa Somalia while he was travelling to Mogadishu in the town of Adan Yabal during the day after he left the presidential palace, narrowly surviving.{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-03-18 |title=Al Shabaab reivindica un atentado con bomba contra el convoy del presidente de Somalia en Mogadiscio |trans-title=Al-Shabaab claims responsibility for bombing Somali President's convoy in Mogadishu |url=https://www.teleprensa.com/articulo/internacional/shabaab-reivindica-atentado-bomba-convoy-presidente-somalia-mogadiscio/202503181342352064809.html |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=Teleprensa |language=es}} Al-Shabaab clashed with Somali National Army soldiers after attempting to launch an assault against a government military base near Ceelbarwaaqo, located on the outskirts of the Middle Shabelle region where several al-Shabaab militants were killed.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-18 |title=Somalia: Somali Forces Clash With Al-Shabaab Militants in Middle Shabelle Region |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202503180461.html |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=allAfrica}} Al-Shabaab also overran the town of Warta Dibi Samatar and its military base, killing 30 as well as capturing soldiers and a large amount of equipment.{{Cite web |last=الإخبارية |first=وكالة شهادة |date=2025-03-18 |title=القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين: مقتل أكثر من 40 مرتدا وإصابة وأسر عدد آخر، واستهداف موكب الرئيس الصومالي في هجمات اليوم |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B3%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87-7/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}} Al-Shabaab militants also ambushed federal forces near Hareeri Caadle, killing 16 and wounding 12. Al-Shabaab forces also attacked federal troops near Nuur-Gaab village, killing four.

On March 19, al-Shabaab militants launched mortars at the Halane military compound in Mogadishu near the Aden Adde International Airport, with some projectiles landing directly in and on the compound with other shells reportedly landing outside the compound's perimeter, the airport's alarm system was activated immediately following the attack, with heightening tensions in the vicinity.{{Cite web |last=Mataan |first=Asad Cabdullahi |date=2025-03-19 |title=Mortars strike Mogadishu's heavily fortified Halane compound |url=https://www.caasimada.net/mortars-strike-mogadishus-heavily-fortified-halane-compound/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=Caasimada Online |language=en-US}} The Somali government also sacked Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur after the US insisted that if he "wasn't removed, they would reconsider their security cooperation with Mogadishu against al-Shabaab," due to his ties with Turkey.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-19 |title=Somalia sacks defence minister amid US pressure over his Turkey ties {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/somalia-sacks-defence-minister-amid-us-pressure-over-his-turkey-ties/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} al-Shabaab militants also captured Gulane town, lifting a three-year-long siege on its strongholds in the central regions of Galgadud and Mudug.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Ciidamada Al-Shabaab oo La Wareegay Deegaan Muhiim ah oo Katirsan Shabeellaha Dhexe. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ciidamada-al-shabaab-oo-la-wareegay-deegaan-muhiim-ah-oo-katirsan-shabeellaha-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Guardian |first=Somali |title=Al-Shabaab captures Gulane town in #Somalia's Middle Shabelle region, lifting a three-year-long siege on its strongholds in the central regions of Galgadud and Mudug, in what appears to be a short-term objective for the counter-offensive it launched late last month |url=https://x.com/somaliguardian/status/1902435341673624042?s=46}}

On March 20, al-Shabaab militants attempted to plant explosives on the outskirts of Daynile district in Mogadishu where al-Shabaab members illegally brought eight mines into the city, five of sticky bombs, and two F1 bombs, though the members were arrested by the National Intelligence and Security Agency which included Nuur Muxudiin Jibril, Maxamed Cabdiraxmaan Maxamed, and Cali Maxamed Cabdi.{{Cite web |last=Muuse |first=Guuleed |date=2025-03-20 |title=Shabaab oo isku dayey inay qaraxyo culus soo geliyaan Muqdisho – Kadib maxaa dhacay? |trans-title=Al-Shabaab tried to carry out major bombings in Mogadishu – What happened next? |url=https://www.caasimada.net/shabaab-oo-isku-dayey-inay-qaraxyo-culus-soo-geliyaan-muqdisho-kadib-maxaa-dhacay/ |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=Caasimada Online |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=NISA oo rag ka tirsan Al-shabaab kusoo qabtay Howlgallo ay ka sameeyeen Dayniile iyo Dharkeenlay |trans-title=NISA arrests Al-Shabaab members in operations in Dayniile and Dharkeenlay |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta20-189693.htm |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=Hiiraan Online}} In the Middle Shabelle region, Somali Armed Forces conducted a special operation against al-Shabaab members two al-Shabaab members riding a Fekon motorcycle were killed in Galharuur area, under the Adan Yabal district of the Middle Shabelle region, after local forces blocked their path where the local police seized two AK-47 rifles from the slain men, the Fekon motorcycle, and other equipment, including bags used to hide from airstrikes.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-20 |title=Xubno Shabaab ah oo la dilay iyo hubkii ay wateen oo al qaatay (Sawirro) |trans-title=Al-Shabaab members killed and their weapons seized (Photos) |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=370850 |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=Allbanaadir |language=so}} An al-Shabaab member attempted to throw a grenade at the Gaheyr University in Daynile where the locals captured him before he could do damage, where they beat and humiliated him in public, torturing him, before they handed him off to local police forces.{{Cite web |title= Shacabka Dayniile oo nolosha ku qabtay nin katirsanaa al Shabaab oo| date=March 20, 2025 |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=370836}} Al-Shabaab militants stormed and seized the town of Sabiid and its SNA base in Lower Shabelle region, located 40 km southwest of Mogadishu.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Xeryihii Ciidanka DF ee Degaanka Sabiid oo lala Wareegay. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/xeryihii-ciidanka-df-ee-degaanka-sabiid-oo-lala-wareegay/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Al-Shabaab oo La Wareegay Degaanka Sabiid iyo Bayaan ay kasoo Saareen Dagaalka. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-la-wareegay-degaanka-sabiid-iyo-bayaan-ay-kasoo-saareen-dagaalka/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=الإخبارية |first=وكالة شهادة |date=2025-03-20 |title=مقاتلو حركة الشباب المجاهدين يسيطرون بالكامل على بلدة زبيد جنوب غربي العاصمة مقديشو عقب هجوم كاسح (بيان + صور) |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%88-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87%D8%AF%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%8A%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%86-2/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}}{{Cite web |last=الإخبارية |first=وكالة شهادة |date=2025-03-20 |title=صور توثق حضور مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين وسيطرتهم على المناطق الواقعة على مشارف العاصمة مقديشو |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%B1-%D8%AA%D9%88%D8%AB%D9%82-%D8%AD%D8%B6%D9%88%D8%B1-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%8A-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}} Al-Shabaab militants also targeted fleeing SNA soldiers with explosives, killing four.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Askar ka Firxatay Weerarkii Sabiid oo Lagu Dilay Qarax ka Dhacay Duleedka Afgooye. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/askar-ka-firxatay-weerarkii-bariire-oo-lagu-dilay-qarax-ka-dhacay-duleedka-afgooye/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} A total of 26 Somali soldiers died in the sweeping attack, with a number injured including Deputy Commander of the SNA General Abdullahi Aden Hussein (Cirro). A convoy of reinforcements on their way to Sabiid were also ambushed,{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-20 |title=Militants attack army bases near south Somalia's Afgoye town {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/militants-attack-army-bases-near-south-somalias-afgoye-town/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} with Mohamed Nur Jareere, a senior military officer and the commander of the Awdheegle-based 146th battalion of the SNA's 14 October division being killed by an IED in the village of Ala-Yasir near No. 50 area while en route to assist the SNA garrison in Sabiid that were under attack.{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Al-Shabaab oo la wareegtay Sabiid iyo Taliye Ciidan iyo Ilaaladiisa oo la dilay |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/al-shabaab-oo-la-wareegtay-sabiid-iyo-taliye-ciidan-iyo-ilaaladiisa-oo-la-dilay |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} Al-Shabaab also ambushed another reinforcement unit in Hawa Abdi and Elasha Biyaha between Afgooye and Mogadishu, wounding two.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Gurmad kasoo Baxay Ceelasha Biyaha oo Ku Dhacay Kamiin loo Dhigay. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/gurmad-kasoo-baxay-ceelasha-biyaha-oo-ku-dhacay-kamiin-loo-dhigay/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab militants also set up roadblocks and checkpoints in Mogadishu's outskirts, on the road between Afgooye and Mogadishu.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Al-Shabaab oo Howlgallo ka Sameeyay Wadada u Dhaxeysa Muqdisho & Afgooye.[SAWIRRO] – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-howlgallo-ka-sameeyay-wadada-u-dhaxeysa-muqdisho-afgooye-sawirro/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab militants also attacked the town of Shalambood in the Lower Shabelle region, capturing weapons and killing Haji Fareey, an SNA commander. That night, al-Shabaab militants launched attacks on Somali military camps in Sabiid and Aanoole where the attacks were repelled by Somali National Army soldiers.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-20 |title=Maxaa xalay ka dhacay furimaha dagaalka ee shabeelada dhexe? |trans-title=What happened last night in the opening stages of the battle in the Middle Shabelle region? |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/cyve0gr250go |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=BBC Somali Service |language=so}}

On March 21, Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency announced that it, along with the Somali Air Force, carried out six airstrikes in the villages of Sabiid and Aanole, killing 82 Al Shabab fighters and injuring 19.{{Cite web |title=TRT Global – Somalia eliminates over 80 Al Shabab terrorists in air strikes |url=https://trt.global/world/article/793ac57f8527 |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=trt.global |language=en}} Al-Shabaab fighters captured the town of Bariire, situated between Awdheegle and Afgooye in Lower Shabelle region,{{Cite web |date=2025-03-21 |title=Al-Shabaab oo la Wareegay Bariire iyo Weeraro ka Dhacay Gobalka Baay. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-la-wareegay-bariire-iyo-weeraro-ka-dhacay-gobalka-baay/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} this was after the SNA fled the area after they were informed of a strong attack coming their way with a ground attack that took place the day before in the Sabiid area on the outskirts of Afgooye district, at least 26 soldiers from the SNA were killed in the attack and a large number of Somali soldiers were injured, which included the Deputy Commander of the Infantry Force, General Abdullahi Aden Hussein, and a planned operation in which a soldier from the SNA was killed took place on the outskirts of the Shalambood area, with another attack in Bay region, Al-Shabaab militants completed an attacked last night against Camp One, where Southwest State militias are stationed in the Diinsoor district.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-21 |title=SAWIRRO: Jihaadiyiinta oo Bariire la wareegay + Hawl-gallo kale iyo amni-xaqiijin ay ka sameeyeen wada Afgooye iyo Xamar. |trans-title=PHOTOS: Jihadists take over Bariire + Other operations and security measures carried out in Afgooye and Xamar. |url=https://somali-memo.info/articles/21223/SAWIRRO-Jihaadiyiinta-oo-Bariire-la-wareegay-Hawl-gallo-kale-iyo-amni-xaqiijin-ay-ka-sameeyeen-wada-Afgooye-iyo-Xamar |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=Somalimemo Media Network |language=English}} Somali National Army announced that they alongside local tribal militias launched a large-scale operation against al-Shabaab militants in the Middle Shabelle region.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-03-21 |title=Somali Forces Launch Large-Scale Operations Against Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle Region |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somali-forces-launch-large-scale-operations-against-al-shabaab-in-middle-shabelle-region/ |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}} In the Baardale district, a man who claimed to be a member of al-Shabaab and threatened to murder everybody in the city was shot by security forces in the state of Gedo, this led to two civilians being injured.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-21 |title=Nin Al Shabaab katirsan oo dil geesan rabay oo isaga la toogtay |trans-title=Al Shabaab member who wanted to kill people was shot dead |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=371058 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=Allbanaadir |language=en-US}}

On March 22, Al-Shabaab's spokesperson Ali Dheere held an open press conference at a graduation ceremony of newly trained fighters from the Sheikh Abdullahi Ahmed Sahal Military Training Academy. Addressing the fighters, he highlighted the group's newly launched offensives reportedly aimed at seizing Mogadishu, stating: "The apostate forces trained in Turkey, those built up in Eritrea, those trained in Egypt, and those established by the United States—today, the apostates cannot even form a single organized unit for battle".{{Cite web |date=2025-03-22 |title=Sheekh Cali Dheere oo Tababar Usoo Xeray Ciidan Cusub Kalimad Xasaasi Ahna Jeediyay. (Warbixin) – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/sheekh-cali-dheere-oo-tababar-usoo-xeray-ciidan-cusub-kalimad-xasaasi-ahna-jeediyay-warbixin/ |access-date=2025-03-23 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} The same day Al-Shabaab targeted Ex-Control Afgooye in Mogadishu, killing one and injuring three. Al-Shabaab also targeted an SNA post near the Coca-Cola company in Yaqshid district, injuring a soldier.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-22 |title=Qaraxyo lagu weeraray maleeshiyaadka Gurguurte oo ka dhacay Muqdisho. |url=https://somali-memo.info/articles/21226/Qaraxyo-lagu-weeraray-maleeshiyaadka-Gurguurte-oo-ka-dhacay-Muqdisho |access-date=2025-03-23 |website=somali-memo.info |language=English}} By this date, Al-Shabaab briefly captured the villages of Xaawo Cabdi, Lafoole, and Ceelasha Biyaha near Afgooye.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-22 |title=Somali Forces Deployed to Secure Mogadishu-Afgoye Highway Amid Al-Shabaab Activity |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somali-forces-deployed-to-secure-mogadishu-afgoye-highway-amid-al-shabaab-activity |access-date=2025-03-24 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}}

On March 23, Al-Shabaab fighters briefly enter the road connecting Mogadishu with Bal'ad, setting up checkpoints and searching vehicles. Senior commanders leading the fighters also addressed travelers using the road.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-23 |title=Ciidamada Al-Shabaab oo Howlgallo Amni ka Sameeyay Inta u Dhexeysa Muqdisho iyo Balcad. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ciidamada-al-shabaab-oo-howlgallo-amni-ka-sameeyay-inta-u-dhexeysa-muqdisho-iyo-balcad/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250324051414/https://radiofurqaan.net/ciidamada-al-shabaab-oo-howlgallo-amni-ka-sameeyay-inta-u-dhexeysa-muqdisho-iyo-balcad/ |archive-date=2025-03-24 |access-date=2025-03-23 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab militants also captured the village of Ilbaq, located between Bal'ad and Jowhar, as well as its military base.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Al-Shabaab oo La Wareegay Xerada Ilbaq ee Dhacda Inta Udhaxeysa Jowhar iyo Balcad. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-goordhow-la-wareegay-xerada-ilbaq-ee-dhacda-inta-udhaxeysa-jowhar-iyo-balcad/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250324050846/https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-goordhow-la-wareegay-xerada-ilbaq-ee-dhacda-inta-udhaxeysa-jowhar-iyo-balcad/ |archive-date=2025-03-24 |access-date=2025-03-24 }} That same day Al-Shabaab militants ambushed an SNA convoy in the Hareri 'Aadle area, killing 16 and injuring 12. Al-Shabaab's Al-Kata'ib media also released video footage documenting the large ambush.{{Cite web |last=الإخبارية |first=وكالة شهادة |date=2025-03-23 |title=الكتائب الإخبارية توثق باللقطات الحية كمين مقاتلي حركة الشباب المجاهدين المحكم في منطقة هريري عادلي على مشارف العاصمة مقديشو |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%A6%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D9%88%D8%AB%D9%82-%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%82%D8%B7%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D9%8A-3/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=وكالة شهادة الإخبارية |language=ar}}

On March 24, Al-Shabaab militants attacked and killed six Kenyan police officers during border clashes in the Fafi area, Garissa District.{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Al-Shabaab oo weerar ku dishay lix askari oo ka tirsan booliska Kenya |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/al-shabaab-oo-weerar-ku-dishay-lix-askari-oo-ka-tirsan-booliska-kenya |access-date=2025-03-24 |website=Garowe Online |language=so}} The al-Shabaab militants attacked a camp housing police reservists, with the attackers were using various weapons.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-24 |title=Al Shabaab oo weerar askar badan lagu dilay ka fulisay Kenya |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=371351 |access-date=2025-03-24 |website=Allbanaadir.com |language=en-US}} An airstrike operation was conducted against officers and Al-Shabaab members where they specifically targeted a senior Al-Shabaab official named Ali Biyow Gaafow and his bodyguards, who were killed in the airstrike that took place last night in the Alkowsar area.{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-03-24 |title=Horjooge Shabaab ah iyo ilaaladiisa oo duqeyn lagu dilay {{!}} Caasimada Online |url=https://www.caasimada.net/horjooge-shabaab-ah-iyo-ilaaladiisa-oo-duqeyn-lagu-dilay/ |access-date=2025-03-24 |language=en-US}} The federal government deployed additional troops to the Mogadishu-Balcad highway after Al-Shabab fighters were sighted along the route the day before.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Troops reinforced on Mogadishu-Balcad road after Al-Shabab sightings |url=https://halqabsi.com/2025/03/troops-reinforced-on-mogadishu/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=Halqabsi News |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab also fired up to ten mortar rounds at two SNA military bases near Afgooye, reportedly killing eight Somali soldiers and wounding six, with Hussein Haji Mohamed (Aw Koombe), an army officer, among the dead.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Ku Dhawaad 10 Askari oo Lagu Dilay Madaafiic Lagu Garaacay Xeryo ku Yaalla Afgooye. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ku-dhawaad-10-askari-oo-lagu-dilay-madaafiic-lagu-garaacay-xeryo-ku-yaalla-afgooye/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Mortar attack hits Mogadishu outskirts, casualties reported |url=https://halqabsi.com/2025/03/mortar-attack-hits-mogadishu/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=Halqabsi News |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Hoobiyeyaal khasaare kala duwan geystay oo maanta lagu garaacay gudaha magaalada Afgooye |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta24-189735.htm |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=www.hiiraan.com}} An Al-Shabaab IED in the Taredisho area on the outskirts of Mogadishu struck a vehicle carrying federal troops, killing four and wounding another three.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Qarax Khasaare Dhaliyay oo Goordhow ka Dhacay Duleedka Magaalada Muqdisho. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/qarax-khasaare-dhaliyay-oo-goordhow-ka-dhacay-duleedka-magaalada-muqdisho/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Another IED in the village of Buurane in Middle Shabelle region killed two Burundian soldiers under AUSSOM, a contingent that is scheduled to leave.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Qarax ka Dhacay Shabeellaha Dhexe oo Lagu Dilay Ciidamo Burundees ah. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/qarax-ka-dhacay-shabeellaha-dhexe-oo-lagu-dilay-ciidamo-burundees-ah/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} The Habr Gidir and Galje'el clans also donated camels to Al-Shabaab fighters on the frontline.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-24 |title=Beelaha Habargidir iyo Gaaljecel oo Geel ku Wareejiyay Xarakada Al-Shabaab.[WAREYSI] – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/beelaha-habargidir-iyo-gaaljecel-oo-geel-ku-wareejiyay-xarakada-al-shabaab-wareysi/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On March 25, al-Shabaab relocated operations into the Bay and Bakool regions after certain defeats in the Middle Shabelle region with a statement from General Hassan Isaaq Omar, commonly known as Hassan Baidoa, the commander of the Somali National Army's (SNA) 60th Division, that security forces are outlooking and maintaining safety in the region to not allow further advances.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-25 |title=Al-Shabaab militants relocate to Bay and Bakool regions after defeat in Middle Shabelle region |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200853/al_shabaab_militants_relocate_to_bay_and_bakool_regions_after_defeat_in_middle_shabelle_region.aspx |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Somali security forces revealed that they arrested Abdullahi Ahmed Mohamed, a key operative in al-Shabaab's media efforts, while on March 22, 2025, in Waajid, Bakool region, while filming a failed attack on a government military base.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-25 |title=Security Forces in Southwest State Arrest Key Al-Shabaab Media Operative |url=https://www.ftlsomalia.com/security-forces-in-southwest-state-arrest-key-al-shabaab-media-operative/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=FTL Somalia |language=en-US}} 30 Al-Shabaab militants raided the Kenyan village of Iresuki village, Mandera County, engaging gunfire with National Police Reservists, killing one, Abdikher Ibrahim.{{Cite web |last=Khamis |first=Salma |date=2025-03-25 |title=Another NPR Killed In Raid On His Home On Mandera Amid Operations |url=https://nairobinews.co.ke/another-npr-killed-in-raid-on-his-home-on-mandera-amid-operations/ |access-date=2025-03-25 |website=Nairobi News |language=en-US}} The Tunni clan in Kunyo Barrow donated 10 camels as well as dates to Al-Shabaab fighters fighting on the frontlines in Lower Shabelle region.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-25 |title=Beesha Tunni oo Geel ku Wareejisay Xarakada Mujaahidiinta Al-Shabaab.[WARBIXIN] – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/beesha-tunni-oo-geel-ku-wareejisay-xarakada-mujaahidiinta-al-shabaab-warbixin/ |access-date=2025-03-26 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On March 26, Al-Shabaab fighters recaptured the town of Masajid Ali Gaduud near Adale.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-26 |title=Ciidamada Xarakada Mujaahidiinta Al-Shabaab oo Dagaal kula Wareegay Masaajid Cali Gauduud. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ciidamada-xarakada-mujaahidiinta-al-shabaab-oo-dagaal-kula-wareegay-cali-gauduud/ |access-date=2025-03-26 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} The town was captured by Somali forces in 2022, but its recapture by al-Shabaab is considered a significant blow to Somali forces after heavy confrontation.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-26 |title=Al-Shabaab captures Masajid Ali Gadud town in Somalia's Middle Shabelle region {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/al-shabaab-captures-masajid-ali-gadud-town-in-somalias-middle-shabelle-region/ |access-date=2025-03-26 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} The confrontation includes heavy bombing of a Somali military base located in Masjid Ali Gaduud, with both sides facing heavy loses, initial reports suggest that government forces managed to repel the first wave of the assault, but the town fell into al-Shabaab control.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-03-26 |title=Al-Shabaab Carried Out Major Attack on Military Bases in Somalia |url=https://shabellemedia.com/al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-for-attack-on-military-bases-in-somalia/ |access-date=2025-03-26 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}} Somali forces fled to Gil Ghab, 10 kilometers from Haji Ali which Al-Shabaab militants also captured.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-26 |title=القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين: فتح مدينة توفيق "مساجد علي غدود" الاستراتيجية (بيان + صور) |script-title=ar:القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين: فتح مدينة توفيق "مساجد علي غدود" الاستراتيجية (بيان + صور) |trans-title=Al-Shabaab's Military Command: Liberation of the Strategic City of Tawfiq (Ali Ghudud Mosques) (Statement + Photos) |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B3%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87-9/ |access-date=2025-03-26 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}}

On March 27, Somali forces and al-Shabaab forces clash in the Abagbeeday area, about 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) east of Hudur district in the Bakool region, according to Colonel Younis Adan Hassan, commander of the 9th Brigade, stated that the Somali National Army inflicted significant losses against al-Shabaab and seized weapons and military equipment during the operation.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-27 |title=Somali National Army clashes with Al-Shabaab near Hudur district |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200886/somali_national_army_clashes_with_al_shabaab_near_hudur_district.aspx |access-date=2025-03-27 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Somali forces claimed to took the town of Masajid Ali Guduud back from al-Shabaab militants with Somali Ministry of Defence spokesman Sheikh Abukar Mohamed holding a press conference and exclaimed that government and local forces repelled an attack by Al-Shabaab, and indicated that heavy losses were inflicted.{{Cite web |last=Muuse |first=Guuleed |date=2025-03-27 |title=Dowladda oo shaacisay in dib loola wareegay Masaajid Cali Gaduud + Video |trans-title=The government announced that the Cali Gaduud Mosque has been taken back + Video |url=https://www.caasimada.net/dowladda-oo-shaacisay-in-dib-loola-wareegay-masaajid-cali-gaduud-video/ |access-date=2025-03-27 |website=Caasimada Online |language=en-US}}

On March 29, Al-Shabaab's Al-Kata’ib released footage documenting their earlier offensive to capture the Sabiid area near Afgooye in Lower Shabelle. They also released a video showing Al-Shabaab fighters in the Towfiiq district of the “Ali Guduud Mosque” in Middle Shabelle, featuring a speech by Abgaal clan leader Abdullahi Ali Caraaye.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-29 |title=Muuqaallada Weerarkii Sabiid iyo Al-Shabaab oo ku Sugan Masaajid Cali Gaduud oo la Baahiyay. |trans-title=Footage of the Sabiid and Al-Shabaab attack on the Ali Gaduud Mosque has been released. |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/muuqaallada-weerarkii-sabiid-iyo-al-shabaab-oo-ku-sugan-masaajid-cali-gaduud-oo-la-baahiyay/ |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=en-US}} The Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced that a joint air and ground operation in the Geelgub area of Middle Shabelle resulted in the death of 21 Al-Shabaab members, including senior leaders and fighters. The operation was conducted in coordination with local Ma’awisley militia and federal forces. NISA reiterated its warning to the public to avoid Al-Shabaab active areas, and stated that these areas remain legitimate targets. The operation is part of a broader campaign to dismantle Al-Shabaab's strongholds, although the group remains a significant threat, launching deadly attacks in rural regions.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-29 |title=Somali army kills 21 Al-Shabab militants in Middle Shabelle region |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200907/somali_army_kills_21_al_shabab_militants_in_middle_shabelle_region.aspx |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} The Somali Ministry of Defense announced the results of recent operations against Al-Shabaab in the Shabelle regions. Government forces claim to have retaken Sabiib and Canoole in Lower Shabelle, inflicting heavy defeats on Al-Shabaab and conducting clearance operations, while Al-Shabaab stated that they had repelled the government offensive.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-02 |title=Ciidamada Al-Shabaab oo Weli Gacanta ku Haya Deegaanka Sabiid Caanoole. – Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ciidamada-al-shabaab-oo-weli-gacanta-ku-haya-deegaanka-sabiid-caanoole/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Another operation in Ceelgub, Middle Shabelle, reportedly killed 30 militants, and a third operation in Buus Aduur resulted in two more Al-Shabaab deaths.{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-03-29 |title=Xogta howl-galladii ugu dambeeyay ee ka dhacay Shabeellooyinka + Video {{!}} Caasimada Online |url=https://www.caasimada.net/xogta-howlgalladii-ugu-dambeeyay-ee-ka-dhacay-shabeellooyinka-video/ |access-date=2025-03-31 |language=en-US}}

On March 30, Somali commandos from the Danab Brigade and Jubaland Dervish Force conducted a joint operation in Lower Juba, targeting Al-Shabaab. The operation destroyed extortion centers and bases used by the group, including areas where civilians were forced to collect Zakatul Fitri. Military officials reported that the allied forces inflicted losses on Al-Shabaab during the operation.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-30 |title=Ciidamada Danab oo burburiyay fariisimo Al Shabaab lahaayeen |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=372144 |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Allbanaadir.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-31 |title=Somali commandos, Jubbaland forces target Al-Shabaab strongholds in Lower Juba region |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200931/somali_commandos_jubbaland_forces_target_al_shabaab_strongholds_in_lower_juba_region.aspx |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab militants attacked Somali Federal Government soldiers operating near Dhusamareb in the Galgaduud region, resulting in the deaths of at least six soldiers. The militants also captured six rifles and ammunition from the killed soldiers.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-30 |title=Ku Dhawaad 10 Askari oo Lagu Dilay Weerar ka Dhacay Duleedka Dhuusamareeb. |trans-title=Nearly 10 soldiers killed in attack on outskirts of Dhusamareb. |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ku-dhawaad-10-askari-oo-lagu-dilay-weerar-ka-dhacay-duleedka-dhuusamareeb/ |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=en-US}} The Somali National Army, with the support of local forces and international partners, conducted an air and ground operation in the Masaajid Ali Gaduud forested area in Middle Shabelle, an area recently attacked by Al-Shabaab. The government reported the operation has caused significant losses for Al-Shabaab, who reportedly still maintain a presence in the strategic area.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-30 |title=Howlgal cir iyo dhul oo ka dhan ah Al Shabaab oo socda deegaanka... |trans-title=Air and ground operations against Al Shabaab underway in the area... |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=372137 |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Allbanaadir.com |language=en-US}}

On March 31, Al-Shabaab cancelled its annual Eid military parade, a display of their military strength, reportedly due to the impact of ongoing airstrikes. No troops or officials were seen in parade grounds in Al-Shabaab controlled areas, and leaders only participated in Eid celebrations via voice messages, avoiding public appearances. This absence, coupled with the lack of any statement from Al-Shabaab in the conflict-ridden Middle Shabelle region, suggests that airstrikes have significantly impacted the group's power and movement, hindering their ability to operate publicly.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-31 |title=Alshabaab oo joojiyay dhoollatuskoodii ciidan ee lagu yaqaanay maalinta Ciidda |trans-title=Al-Shabaab cancels its military parade on Eid |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta31-189800.htm |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Hiiraan Online}}{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-03-31 |title=Shabaab oo joojiyay dhaqan lagu yaqaanay maalinta Ciidda kadib arrin soo korortay |url=https://www.caasimada.net/shabaab-oo-joojiyay-dhaqan-lagu-yaqaanay-maalinta-ciidda-kadib-arrin-soo-korortay/ |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Caasimada Online |language=en-US}} One of these audio messages was by Sheikh Mahad Warsame Abu Abdirahman, one of the general leaders of Al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-30 |title=Hogaanka Sare ee Al-Shabaab oo Muslimiinta Ugu Hambalyeeyay Munaasabadda Ciidul Fidirga.[DHAGEYSO] |trans-title=Al-Shabaab's Senior Leadership Congratulates Muslims on Eid al-Fitr. [LISTEN] |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/hogaanka-sare-ee-al-shabaab-oo-muslimiinta-ugu-hambalyeeyay-munaasabadda-ciidul-fidirga-dhageyso/ |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}}

On April 1, the Somali National Army with cooperation of Jubaland conducted operations against al-Shabaab, with Somali forces destroying crucial checkpoints that were run by al-Shabaab in the Lower Juba to collect Zakatul Fitr for Ramadan.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-01 |title=Forces Launch Joint Operations Against Al-Shabaab in Southern Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/forces-launch-joint-operations-against-al-shabaab-in-southern-somalia |access-date=2025-04-01 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} The Somali army killed around 70 al-Shabaab militants in the Shabelle region after the conducting of a separate operation.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-01 |title=Somali army says killed 70 Al-Shabaab militants |url=https://www.gulf-times.com/article/702828/international/somali-army-says-killed-70-al-shabaab-militants |access-date=2025-04-01 |website=Gulf Times |language=en}} During the time of these operations, tensions have escalated in the Sabiid area near Afgooye in Lower Shabelle between Somali government forces and Al-Shabaab, causing residents to flee in fear of imminent conflict. Al-Shabaab, which took over Sabiid a week ago, has previously forced government forces to withdraw due to intense attacks. Escalating tensions are also causing displacement in nearby Awdheegle, where Somali forces have unsuccessfully tried to regain control. Al-Shabaab has intensified its operations during Ramadan, regaining control of several areas in Lower and Middle Shabelle, significantly undermining the Somali government's authority.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-04-01 |title=Tensions Between Somali Forces and Al-Shabaab Erupt in Sabiid Area |url=https://shabellemedia.com/tensions-between-somali-forces-and-al-shabaab-erupt-in-sabiid-area/ |access-date=2025-04-01 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}

On April 2, Al-Shabaab released footage showing its fighters still in control of Sabiid despite the federal government claiming to have recaptured the town.

On April 4, Jubaland deployed a large force of elite Dervish troops to northern Lower Juba to intensify operations against Al-Shabaab. The move follows a successful joint assault by Somali Danab Commandos and Jubaland forces that destroyed a key militant base. State media showed troops joining Somali and international forces in the offensive. Jubaland leaders pledged to target Al-Shabaab strongholds across Lower and Middle Juba to reclaim the regions and restore civilian governance. The campaign follows a recent airstrike on Jilib, Al-Shabaab's southern stronghold, which reportedly disrupted the group's leadership. This marks an expanded effort to dismantle Al-Shabaab's grip on southern Somalia.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-04-04 |title=Jubaland Deploys Elite Force to Battle Al-Shabaab in Lower Juba Offensive |url=https://shabellemedia.com/jubaland-deploys-elite-force-to-battle-al-shabaab-in-lower-juba-offensive/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}

High rates of desertion among Somalia's security forces have drawn strong condemnation from government religious leaders and officials. On 5 April, senior government cleric Sheikh Ali Wajis publicly denounced soldiers who fled their posts following militant attacks, labeling them apostates and urging punitive actions such as arrest. His statements were supported by Custodial Corps commander who warned that deserters—and their families, including parents—could face arrest or execution. Analysts have cautioned that declining military resolve may have severe consequences and that disparaging statements from government officials are eroding Somali army morale.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=5 April 2025 |title=Somalia's war effort unravels: Soldiers flee, officials respond with brutal threats |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/somalias-war-effort-unravels-soldiers-flee-officials-respond-with-brutal-threats/ |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}}

On April 5, Somali National Army commander Nur Farey of the 14 October Battalion was assassinated in Lower Shabelle. Farey had been taking lead in coordinating government operations in the region{{Cite web |date=5 April 2025 |title=Taliyihii Guutada 14ka October ee Ciidanka Qaranka oo lagu dilay Gobolka Shabeellaha Hoose |url=https://hiiraan.com/news/2025/Apr/wararka_maanta5-189849.htm?utm_source=hiiraan&utm_medium=WararkaMaantaFront |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Hiiraan Online}} and had played a vital role in holding the line against the insurgent offensive. His death was consequently a significant blow to the morale of the army.{{Cite web |date=5 April 2025 |title=Senior Somali Army Commander Nur Farey Assassinated in Line of Duty |url=https://arlaadimedia.com/2025/04/05/brigadier-nur-farey-senior-somali-army-commander-assassinated-in-line-of-duty/ |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Arlaadi Media |language=en-US}} That same day the heavily fortified presidential palace Villa Somalia was hit with a mortar barrage.{{Cite web |date=5 April 2025 |title=Mortar Attack Near Somali Presidential Palace Leaves Civilians Injured |url=https://arlaadimedia.com/2025/04/05/mortar-attack-near-somali-presidential-palace-leaves-civilians-injured/ |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Arlaadi Media |language=en-US}} The attack also targeted other federal government facilities.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-05 |title=Al-Shabaab oo Dharaarcad Muqdisho ka Fulinaya Weerar Madaafiic ah.[DAAWO] |trans-title=Al-Shabaab carries out artillery attack in Mogadishu during daylight hours. [WATCH] |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-dharaarcad-muqdisho-ka-fulinaya-weerar-madaafiic-ah-daawo/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}} The mortar attack injured 6.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-05 |title=Mortar Attack Near Somalia Presidential Palace Wounds At Least Six |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/mortar-attack-near-somalia-presidential-palace-wounds-at-least-six |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} The Somali Air Force alongside NISA executed air strikes in 6 different locations killing a total of 80 al-Shabaab militants, with the first operation taking place in the Sabiid and Canoole areas of the Lower Shabelle region, the bombings were accompanied by a direct operation carried out by NISA ground forces, and 21 Al-Shabaab were killed, the second operation took place at a meeting place of senior Al-Shabaab leaders in the Al-Kawthar district of Middle Shabelle region, and all the leaders present there were killed, according to NISA, the third operation took place in Bursha Sheikh area of Middle Shabelle region, and more than 19 members, including leaders and militia members belonging to Al-Shabaab, were killed, the fourth operation took place in the same Bursha Sheikh area of Middle Shabelle region, and 17 members of Al-Shabaab were killed, who were isolated in the area when they were targeted, some of whom had injuries from the previous attack, the fifth operation took place in Aw-baalle area of Middle Shabelle region, and a number of FEKON motorcycles loaded with mines were destroyed, while seven members were killed on the spot, according to the NISA press release, and the sixth operation took place near the Al-Kawthar district, when local defense forces attacked a location where militants were stationed. Following the attack, NISA carried out airstrikes in the same area, killing 13 Al-Shabaab members.{{Cite web |last=Gacal |first=Zahra Axmed |date=2025-04-05 |title=DF oo shaacisay natiijada lix howlgal oo lagu dilay 80 Shabaab ah, laguna xakameeyey... |trans-title=DF announces results of six operations that killed 80 Shabaab militants and... |url=https://www.caasimada.net/df-oo-shaacisay-natiijada-lix-howlgal-oo-lagu-dilay-80-shabaab-ah-laguna-xakameeyey/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Caasimada Online |language=so}} Clashes took place on the outskirts of Masagaway in the Galgaduud region where one Somali soldier was killed and guns with ammunition were seized.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-05 |title=Dagaal Khasaare Dhaliyay oo ka Dhacay Duleedka Deegaanka Masagawaay ee Galgaduud. |trans-title=A deadly battle took place outside Masagaway area of Galgaduud |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/dagaal-khasaare-dhaliyay-oo-ka-dhacay-duleedka-deegaanka-masagawaay-ee-galgaduud/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}} Al-Shabaab attacked a military camp owned by the Somali forces in the Labagaras area of the Middle Shabelle region, killing several federal forces.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-05 |title=Muuqaalka Weerarkii ka Dhacay Deegaanka Laba-garas ee Sh-dhexe oo la Baahiyay. |trans-title=Footage of the attack in the Labagaras area of central Shabelle has been released. |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/muuqaalka-weerarkii-ka-dhacay-deegaanka-laba-garas-ee-sh-dhexe-oo-la-baahiyay/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}}

On April 7, Somali government forces, supported by local militias, seized the Runirgod district from al-Shabaab militants in the Middle Shabelle region with government forces conducting security operations in the area to pursue fleeing militants and secure the region.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-07 |title=Somali government seizes Ruunirgood district from Al-Shabaab fighters |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Apr/201019/somali_government_seizes_ruunirgood_district_from_al_shabaab_fighters.aspx |access-date=2025-04-07 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} During an al-Shabaab attack, three United Nations workers were killed with another three were injured on the Halane military base in the capital, Mogadishu, after being struck with mortar rounds.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-08 |title=مقتل وإصابة 6 غربيين وتدمير مقرات للأمم المتحدة في قصف حركة الشباب المجاهدين الذي استهدف قاعدة حلني العسكرية بالقرب من المطار الدولي |script-title=ar:مقتل وإصابة 6 غربيين وتدمير مقرات للأمم المتحدة في قصف حركة الشباب المجاهدين الذي استهدف قاعدة حلني العسكرية بالقرب من المطار الدولي |trans-title=Six Westerners were killed and injured, and UN headquarters were destroyed in an Al-Shabaab attack on the Halane military base near the international airport. |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D9%88%D8%A5%D8%B5%D8%A7%D8%A8%D8%A9-6-%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%88%D8%AA%D8%AF%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%B1-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%84%D9%84%D8%A3%D9%85%D9%85/ |access-date=2025-04-08 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}}

On April 8, the Somali National Army launched operations against al-Shabaab, advancing into the Ruun-Nirgood area, alongside local forces with several al-Shabaab positions being destroyed and Somali forces capturing the Aboorey area in Hiran and other important villages.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-08 |title=Soomaaliya: Ciidamada Milatariga oo Howlgallo Fuliyay |trans-title=Somalia: Military Forces Conduct Operations |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/soomaaliya-ciidamada-milatariga-oo-howlgallo-fuliyay |access-date=2025-04-08 |website=Garowe Online |language=so}} The Somali Armed Forces and allied local forces, supported by United States air strikes against militants, carried out operations in Runirgud, Guulane, El Ali Ahmed in Middle Shabelle, and in Buloburde and Jalalaqsi in Hiran, in an attempt to expel the militants from these areas.{{Cite web |last=Peris |first=Guillermo Peris |title=El Ejército anuncia la toma de una zona en el centro de Somalia tras nuevos combates con Al Shabaab |trans-title=The army announces the capture of an area in central Somalia after renewed fighting with al-Shabaab. |url=https://www.diariosigloxxi.com/texto-ep/mostrar/20250408143423/ejercito-anuncia-toma-zona-centro-somalia-nuevos-combates-shabaab |access-date=2025-04-08 |website=Diario Siglo XXI |language=es}}

On April 9, clashes erupted in the Aboorey area of Bulobarde district in Hiraan State between al-Shabaab forces and Somali forces which resulted in the killing of 53 Somali soldiers, including Asad Osman Afrah, the commander of the Danab Brigade, and the injuring of 87 Somali soldiers.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-08 |title=القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين تؤكد مقتل وإصابة 140 من الميليشيات الحكومية من بينهم ضباط في معارك منطقة أبوري وسط الصومال |script-title=ar:القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين تؤكد مقتل وإصابة 140 من الميليشيات الحكومية من بينهم ضباط في معارك منطقة أبوري وسط الصومال |trans-title=The military leadership of the Al-Shabaab Mujahideen Movement confirmed the killing and wounding of 140 government militia members, including officers, in battles in the Aburi area in central Somalia |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B3%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87-10/ |access-date=2025-04-09 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}} Al-Shabaab's military leadership reported on recent clashes in central Somalia, Al-Shabaab fought against Somali forces and their allies in the Aboorey area of Bulobarde, Hiraan State, and other locations. Al-Shabaab also states they successfully repelled an attack to reclaim the Aboorey area and inflicted significant casualties on the opposing forces. Additionally, they reported fighting in Middle Shabelle State, claiming victories and inflicting further casualties, along with an artillery attack on enemy bases.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-09 |title=القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين: أكثر من 100 قتيل وجريح في صفوف الميليشيات الحكومية من بينهم ضباط وقادة في معارك اليوم |script-title=ar:القيادة العسكرية لحركة الشباب المجاهدين: أكثر من 100 قتيل وجريح في صفوف الميليشيات الحكومية من بينهم ضباط وقادة في معارك اليوم |trans-title=Al-Shabaab's military leadership: More than 100 government militia members, including officers and commanders, were killed and wounded in today's fighting |url=https://shahadanews.info/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B3%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%87-11/ |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=Shahada News Agency |language=ar}} Aboorey is vital for Al-Shabaab's movement between Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, and Galmudug.{{Cite web |last=Mataan |first=Asad Cabdullahi |date=2025-04-16 |title=Al-Shabaab militants seize key towns in central Somalia |url=https://www.caasimada.net/al-shabaab-militants-seize-key-towns-in-central-somalia/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=en-US}}

On April 10, the federal government arrested members of the Custodial Corps who deserted frontline positions in ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions following reports that hundreds of police officers have gone missing after deployment to volatile frontline areas. Many are feared to have either melted into civilian populations or defected to Al-Shabaab. Mahad Abdirahman, the commander of the Somali Custodial Corps, earlier declared that soldiers who abandon their posts would face arrest or execution, along with potential punitive measures against their families.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-04-10 |title=Somalia detains soldiers who deserted frontlines in war against Al-Shabaab {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/somalia-detains-soldiers-who-deserted-frontlines-in-war-against-al-shabaab/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=The Somali Guardian |language=en-US}}

On April 11, Somali troops, supported by Ma'awisley forces, engaged in intense fighting with Al-Shabaab in the Aboorey settlement, which Al-Shabaab briefly controlled before being pushed back by the SNA. The Somali army has besieged Al-Shabab fighters in the settlement, blocking roads and cutting off reinforcements, aiming to force their surrender due to dwindling supplies and increasing casualties. Al-Shabaab fighters used trenches and a mosque for cover. The Somali army intended to continue the operation to restore security. Al-Shabaab's initial goal was to control the road connecting key settlements, and many of the Al-Shabaab fighters in Aboorey were reportedly of Oromo ethnicity.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-11 |title=Somali National Army Prevents Al-Shabab's intention to take control of Aboorey settlement |url=https://somalilandstandard.com/somali-national-army-prevents-al-shababs-intention-to-take-control-of-aboorey-settlement/ |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=Somaliland Standard |language=en}} Al-Shabaab claimed to have killed 26 Somali soldiers (of which two bodies were left behind by the SNA) and injured 52 others in Aboorey.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-11 |title=Faahfaahin: In ka Badan 60 Askari oo Dhimasho Dhaawac ku Noqday Dagaallo ka Dhacay Duleedka Aboorreey. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/faahfaahin-in-ka-badan-60-askari-oo-dhimasho-dhaawac-ku-noqday-dagaallo-ka-dhacay-aboorreey/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 12, Abdullahi Dheere, the Hirshabelle spokesperson for the Middle Shabelle region, resigned and accused the Hirshabelle administration led by Ali Guudlawe and the Federal Government of failure in the ongoing fighting in the Middle Shabelle region, also accusing the mayor of Bal'ad town (and the governor of the wider Bal'ad district) of "being a coward".{{Cite web |date=2025-04-12 |title=Afhayeenkii Hirshabeelle ee Sh-Dhexe oo is Casilay Maamulkaasina ku Tilmaamay Mooryaan.oryaan. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/afhayeenkii-hirshabeelle-ee-sh-dhexe-oo-is-casilay-maamulkaasina-ku-tilmaamay-mooryaan-oryaan/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-14 |title=Afhayeenkii Hore ee Hirshabeelle oo Fashilka Dagaalka Sh-dhexe ku Eedeeyay Maamulkii uu ka Tirsanaa. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/afhayeenkii-hore-ee-hirshabeelle-oo-fashilka-dagaalka-sh-dhexe-ku-eedeeyay-maamulkii-uu-ka-tirsanaa/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 15, Al-Shabaab militants assassinated the deputy mayor of Sabiid town, Mohamed Hassan Jiir (nicknamed Maqas) in Elasha Biyaha in the outskirts of Mogadishu.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-14 |title=Gudoomiye ku Xigeenkii Degaanka Sabiid oo Lagu Dilay Duleedka Muqdisho. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/gudoomiye-ku-xigeenkii-degaanka-sabiid-oo-lagu-dilay-duleedka-muqdisho/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 16, after over a week of heavy fighting the SNA withdrew from Aboorey, with Al-Shabaab capturing it as well as the villages of Mabah (blocking regrouping government forces in the area) and Yasooman.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-16 |title=DEG DEG: Xarakada Mujaahidiinta Al-Shabaab oo la Wareegtay Degaanka Yasooman ee Gobolka Hiiraan. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/deg-deg-xarakada-mujaahidiinta-al-shabaab-oo-la-wareegtay-degaanka-yasooman-ee-gobolka-hiiraan/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-16 |title=DEG DEG: Al-Shabaab oo Dagaal Kula Wareegay Degaanka Mabaax ee Hoostaga Moqokori. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-dagaal-kula-wareegay-degaanka-mabaax-ee-hoostaga-magaalada-moqokori/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} Al-Shabaab also overran and captured the strategic town of Adan Yabal and its ten SNA outposts in the Middle Shabelle region after heavy fighting, with 100 fighters routing 2,500-3,000 government troops and allied clan militias, forcing them to withdraw from the various locations.{{Cite web |last=Jama |date=2025-04-16 |title=Adan Yabaal Falls as Political Distractions Leave Mogadishu Exposed |url=https://thesomalidigest.com/adan-yabaal-falls-as-political-distractions-leave-mogadishu-exposed/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=Somali News in English {{!}} The Somali Digest |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-16 |title=Al-Shabaab oo Dagaal kula Wareegay Degmada Aadan Yabaal ee Gobolka Sh.Dhexe. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-dagaal-kula-wareegay-degmada-aadan-yabaal-ee-gobolka-sh-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} The SNA and allied Ma'awisley militias have been using Adan Yabal as an operating base for raids against al Shabaab.{{Cite web |title=Al Shabaab captures strategic Somalia town as it presses offensive |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/al-shabaab-captures-strategic-somalia-town-it-presses-offensive-2025-04-16/ |website=Reuters|date=April 16, 2025 }} In a press release Al-Shabaab claimed to have killed 55 soldiers and injured 71 in Adan Yabal,{{Cite web |date=2025-04-16 |title=In ka Badan 120 Askari oo Dhimasho & Dhaawac ku Noqday Dagaalladii Aadan-Yabaal.[BAYAAN] - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/in-ka-badan-130-askari-oo-dhimasho-dhaawac-ku-noqday-dagaalladii-aadan-yabaal-bayaan/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} with the figure increasing to 400 dead SNA soldiers.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-19 |title=Dhimashada Weerarkii Aadan-Yabaal oo Gaartay 400 iyo Sh Kabokutukade oo ka Hadlay Masiirka Odawaa & Shuute. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/dhimashada-weerarkii-aadan-yabaal-oo-gaartay-400-iyo-sh-kabokutukade-oo-ka-hadlay-masiirka-odawaa-shuute/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} The Chief of Staff of the SNA, Odowaa Yusuf Rageh, as well as Hassan Ali Nur (Shuute), the chief of the Somali military courts in Mogadishu, allegedly fled the fighting.

On April 17, Al-Shabaab fighters hit SNA positions in Arbacow, Lower Shabelle region, injuring five soldiers.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-17 |title=Khasaare ka Dashay Madaafiic Lagu Garaacay Saldhig ay Ciidanka Dowladda Fedaraalka ku Leeyihiin Sh/Hoose. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/khasaare-ka-dashay-madaafiic-lagu-garaacay-saldhig-ay-ciidanka-dowladda-fedaraalka-ku-leeyihiin-sh-hoose/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}} As a response to recent Al-Shabaab gains, a US airstrike targeted militant base in Adan Yabal killing 12 Al-Shabaab militants and also destroyed a ship carrying weapons to the militant group. In another incident an Al-Shabaab attack in the military base in the southwestern city of Baidoa was repelled by SNA resulting in 35 militants killed.{{Cite news|title=US-Somali airstrikes kill al Shabaab militants, hit weapons ship, government says|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/airstrike-army-attack-kill-dozens-al-shabaab-fighters-somalia-government-says-2025-04-17/#:~:text=MOGADISHU%2C%20April%2017%20(Reuters),recent%20advances%20by%20the%20Islamists.|access-date=2025-04-18|website=Reuters }}

On April 18, In the early morning, an assault involving explosions and gunfire happened against a military base in Baay Burjeed resulting in, according to South West State officials, the killing of several Al-Shabaab militants and recovering their bodies. The local population and officials praised the troops' response.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-18 |title=Somalia: South West State Repels Surprise Al-Shabaab Attack Near Baidoa |url=https://hornobserver.com/articles/3292/Somalia-South-West-State-Repels-Surprise-Al-Shabaab-Attack-Near-Baidoa |access-date=2025-04-19 |website=hornobserver.com |language=English}}

On April 19, al-Shabaab killed 8 civilians, including 5 women, in the Adan Yabaal region, who were owners of restaurants, military facilities, laundry facilities and garages.{{Cite web |last=Gacal |first=Zahra Axmed |date=2025-04-19 |title=Xog xasaasi ah: Gawrac iyo kufsi ka socda Aadan-yabaal + Dadka la beegsanayo |trans-title=Sensitive data: Murder and rape from Adan Yabaal + Targeted people |url=https://www.caasimada.net/xog-xasaasi-ah-gawrac-iyo-kufsi-ka-socda-aadan-yabaal-dadka-la-beegsanayo/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=Caasimada Online |language=so}} Al-Shabaab hit the Habar Khadijo NISA headquarters in Mogadishu with mortars.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-19 |title=Madaafiic Lagu Garaacay Xarunta Sirdoonka Dowladda Fedaraalka ee Muqdisho.[WARSAXAAFADEED] - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/madaafiic-lagu-garaacay-xarunta-sirdoonka-ee-dowladda-fedaraalka-warsaxaafadeed/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-19 |title=Madaafiic Lagu Garaacay Xarunta Sirdoonka Dowladda Fedaraalka ee Muqdisho.[WARSAXAAFADEED] |trans-title=A missile hit by the Federal Intelligence Center in Mogadishu.[REPORT] |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/madaafiic-lagu-garaacay-xarunta-sirdoonka-ee-dowladda-fedaraalka-warsaxaafadeed/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}} These mortars struck areas of Mogadishu which resulted in the deaths of two civilians and the injuring of five others.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-19 |title=Mortar Attacks Near Somali Presidential Palace Kill Two, Wound Five |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/mortar-attacks-near-somali-presidential-palace-kill-two-wound-five |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} There were other attacks by al-Shabaab in the areas of Hamar Weyne, Hamar Jajab, and Waberi districts, where mortars and artillery shells struck both civilian homes and open areas which resulted in one civilian being killed and another injured.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-19 |title=A wave of coordinated bomb attacks hit several neighborhoods in Mogadishu: Residents and Diplomats Alarmed |url=https://wardheernews.com/a-wave-of-coordinated-bomb-attacks-hit-several-neighborhoods-in-mogadishu-residents-and-diplomats-alarmed/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=WardheerNews |language=en-US}}

On April 20, reports were made stating that al-Shabaab is planning attacks in the Moqokori district of Hiran after Somali National Army soldiers withdrew from that district with only Ma’awisley forces in that area.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-20 |title=There is a situation of uncertainty in Moqokori district as residents fear Al-Shabab attack |url=https://somalilandstandard.com/there-is-a-situation-of-uncertainty-in-moqokori-district-as-residents-fear-al-shabab-attack/ |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Somaliland Standard |language=en}} Al-Shabaab militants have resurfaced in rural areas near Baidoa in Somalia's Bay region, with the Somali government warning farmers to stay away from their fields. Villages like Gasarta, Dambalka, and Baay-Burjeet have reported sightings. The threats come shortly after Somali forces claimed a victory over al-Shabaab in Deeynuunay, suggesting the group's actions may be retaliatory. Locals report that militants are moving in groups and verbally warning civilians. This has raised fears about food access and safety in the region. The Somali government has not yet responded to the situation.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-20 |title=Al-Shabaab launches attack near Baidoa, warns farmers to stay away from fields |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Apr/201203/al_shabaab_launches_attack_near_baidoa_warns_farmers_to_stay_away_from_fields.aspx |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} An airstrike in Adan Yabaal, a key al-Shabaab stronghold, killed 12 militants, including senior leaders, according to Somalia's information ministry. The town has been used by al-Shabaab for launching operations. While the Somali government says the group is weakened, al-Shabaab remains a serious threat, having recently claimed to recapture Adan Yabaal after an attack involving heavy explosives. No civilian casualties were reported in the airstrike, but control of the town remains uncertain.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-20 |title=US, Somalia conduct airstrike against Al-Shabab militants in Adan Yabaal |url=https://horseedmedia.net/us-somalia-conduct-airstrike-against-al-shabab-militants-in-adan-yabaal/403657/ |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Horseed Media |language=en}} Al-Shabaab militants assassinated Farah Aydiid Jama, an Ethiopian consular working in Garoowe in the Nugal region as revealed by the Khatumo State Police on April 23, with Jama working with Ethiopians in Puntland.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-23 |title=Investigation Underway into Death of Ethiopian Diplomat in Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/investigation-underway-into-death-of-ethiopian-diplomat-in-somalia |access-date=2025-04-23 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}}

On April 22, around 500 Turkish military personnel arrived in Mogadishu to aid the fight against al-Shabaab after talks between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reinforcing a broader defense pact.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-22 |title=Somalia: Turkish Forces Arrive in Mogadishu to Aid Somalia's Fight Against Al-Shabaab |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202504220272.html |access-date=2025-04-22 |work=allAfrica |language=en}} The United States Africa Command carried out airstrikes in Somali waters against illegal weapons smuggling on boats that were being taken to al-Shabaab, this operation destroyed two boats attempting to covertly smuggle weapons.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-22 |title=US-AFRICOM Airstrikes Target Illegal Weapons Headed for Al-Shabaab in Somali Waters |url=https://www.radiodalsan.com/us-africom-airstrikes-target-illegal-weapons-headed-for-al-shabaab-in-somali-waters/ |access-date=2025-04-22 |website=Radio Dalsan |language=en-US}} The Danab Brigade and Jubaland commandos carried out an operation against al-Shabaab in the Lower Juba region, specifically in the western part of the region called Kaam-jaroon, where 9 members of al-Shabaab were killed, including leaders and militants from the group, and others were injured.{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-04-22 |title=Horjoogayaal iyo Shabaab badan oo lagu dilay Kaam-jaroon |trans-title=Many leaders and Al-Shabaab militants killed in Kaam-Jaroon |url=https://www.caasimada.net/horjoogayaal-iyo-shabaab-badan-oo-lagu-dilay-kaam-jaroon/ |access-date=2025-04-22 |website=Caasimada Online |language=so}} Ma’awiisley militias in central Somalia launched a major assault against Al-Shabaab militants near Aadan Yabaal in the Middle Shabelle region, following Al-Shabaab's capture of the town. The offensive, targeting known militant hideouts, resulted in several Al-Shabaab fighters being killed. The goal is to prevent Al-Shabaab from regrouping and launching further attacks. Aadan Yabaal's strategic location makes it a frequent target.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-22 |title=Macawiisley militias launch attack on al-Shabaab near Aadan Yabaal |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Apr/201229/macawiisley_militias_launch_attack_on_al_shabaab_near_aadan_yabaal.aspx |access-date=2025-04-22 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} That same day the Dabarre clan donated 200 goats in a ceremony held in the Al-Shabaab stronghold of Bu'ale in Middle Juba region, intending to support Al-Shabaab fighters who are currently fighting in the front lines of the war.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-22 |title=Beesha Dabarre ee Degta Jubada-dhexe oo 200 Neef oo Ari ah ku Wareejisay Al-Shabaab. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/beesha-dabarre-ee-degta-jubada-dhexe-oo-200-neef-oo-ari-ah-ku-wareejisay-al-shabaab/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 23, Senior officials from the South West State of Somalia arrived at the frontlines near Deynuunay in the Bay region to oversee and support intensified operations against Al-Shabaab. The officials were there to assist in offensives, delivering supplies, and reinforcing troops.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-23 |title=Southwest Leaders Rally Troops at Deynuunay Frontlines in Renewed Push Against Al-Shabaab - Somali News today Live |url=https://www.ftlsomalia.com/southwest-leaders-rally-troops-at-deynuunay-frontlines-in-renewed-push-against-al-shabaab/ |access-date=2025-04-23 |website=FTL Somalia |language=en-US}}

File:Al-Shabaab militants at the Wargaadhi military base.png

On April 24, Al-Shabaab fighters battled Somali troops and allied forces for control of a strategic army base in Wargaadhi, Middle Shabelle, potentially severing a key road between Mogadishu and Galmudug State. Al-Shabaab claimed to have captured the base and town, a claim the government denied. The government stated over 40 jihadists were killed, while an army officer reported that al-Shabaab captured Wargaadhi after heavy fighting, resulting in casualties on both sides. Reinforcements were difficult to send due to Al Shabaab-controlled routes.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-24 |title=Al Shabaab battles Somalia's army for control of strategic military base |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/al-shabaab-battles-somalias-army-control-strategic-military-base-2025-04-24/ |access-date=2025-04-24 |website=Reuters}} Al-Shabaab stated that 60 federal troops have been killed and 21 have been injured.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-24 |title=In ka Badan 80 Askari oo Dhimasho & Dhaawac ku Noqday Weerarkii Wargaadhi.[BAYAAN] - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/in-ka-badan-80-askari-oo-dhimasho-dhaawac-ku-noqday-weerarkii-wargaadhi-bayaan/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 25, Al-Shabaab fighters attacked federal troops stationed in the outskirts of the newly captured Yasooman village in Hiiraan, killing six federal soldiers including an intelligence officer named Abdullahi Nur Ahmed (Timajilac). Al-Shabaab claimed that three were wounded, while four fled the scene of the battle, leaving behind the bodies of the dead soldiers.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-25 |title=Ku Dhawaad 15 Askari oo Dhimasho & Dhaawac ku Noqday Weerar ka Dhacay Duleedka Yasooman. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ku-dhawaad-15-askari-oo-dhimasho-dhaawac-ku-noqday-weerar-ka-dhacay-duleedka-yasooman/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 26, Al-Shabaab's Islamic Sharia court in Janaale District executed Abdullahi Abdirahman Ali, aged 27, after sentencing him to death for working with the federal government's intelligence service.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-26 |title=Al-Shabaab oo Sh-hoose ku Toogtay nin la Shaqeynayay Sirdoonka Dowladda Fedaraalka. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/al-shabaab-oo-sh-hoose-ku-toogtay-nin-la-shaqeynayay-sirdoonka-dowladda-fedaraalka/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 27, divisions of the Somali National Army including 26th unit, 6th division, and 60th division carried out a heavy operation against al-Shabaab targeting senior leaders in the Madulow area of the Lower Shabelle, this operation killed two leaders named Hassan Biid and Abdullahi Garweyne alongside several members of al-Shabaab, a base constructed by al-Shabaab was also destroyed.{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-04-27 |title=Xasan Biid iyo Cabdullahi Garweyne oo howlgal lagu dilay |url=https://www.caasimada.net/xasan-biid-iyo-cabdullahi-garweyne-oo-howlgal-lagu-dilay/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=Caasimada Online |language=so}}

On April 28, Al-Shabaab mortar shelling targeting the heavily fortified Halane base camp near Mogadishu's Aden Adde Airport killed three Americans and wounded six, while critically wounding seven Italians.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-28 |title=Ameerikaan Lagu Dilay Madaafiicdii Xalane & Duqeynta oo Beegsatay Xarumo Muhiim ah.[DHAGEYSO] - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/ameerikaan-lagu-dilay-madaafiicdii-xalane-duqeynta-oo-beegsatay-xarumo-muhiim-ah-dhageyso/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Mortar attack targets Halane Base Camp in Mogadishu; casualties unconfirmed |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Apr/201316/mortar_attack_targets_halane_base_camp_in_mogadishu_casualties_unconfirmed.aspx |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}} In a ceremony held in the Al-Shabaab stronghold of Bu'ale in Middle Juba region, the Ajuran clan donated 200 goats to Al-Shabaab fighters on the frontline.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-28 |title=Jufo Katirsan Beesha Ajuuraan oo Boqallaal Neef oo Ari ah ku Wareejisay Al-Shabaab. - Warbaahinta Al-Furqaan |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/jufo-katirsan-beesha-ajuuraan-oo-boqallaal-neef-oo-ari-ah-ku-wareejisay-al-shabaab/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |website=radiofurqaan.net |language=en-US}}

On April 30, In Kenya’s Mandera County, near the Somali border, suspected Al-Shabaab militants attacked a minibus carrying quarry workers, killing at least five and wounding two others. The attack occurred around 6:00 am near the village of Bor Abor.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-04-30 |title=Five quarry workers killed in suspected Al-Shabaab attack in northeast Kenya |url=https://shabellemedia.com/five-quarry-workers-killed-in-suspected-al-shabaab-attack-in-northeast-kenya/ |access-date=2025-04-30 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}

On May 3, Al-Shabaab launched an attack on a military base on the border of Hiran and Middle Shabelle regions, which was repelled by the Somali National Army and local militias. The Somali government claimed that 50 Al-Shabaab members were killed.{{Cite web |title=Somali army kills at least 50 Al-Shabaab fighters in heavy fighting along Hiiraan–Middle Shabelle border |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/May/201392/somali_army_kills_at_least_50_al_shabaab_fighters_in_heavy_fighting_along_hiiraan%E2%80%93middle_shabelle_border.aspx?utm_source=hiiraan&utm_medium=SomaliNewsUpdateFront |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}}

On May 4, Five elite Special Operations Group (SOG) police officers were killed and five injured in an Al-Shabaab ambush in Boni Forest, Kenya, after pursuing suspected terrorists. The injured officers were flown to Nairobi for treatment. A multi-agency operation is underway to pursue the attackers. The attack highlights the ongoing threat from Al-Shabaab in areas bordering Somalia, particularly in Boni Forest. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the attack, pledged to intensify counter-terror operations, and emphasized the need for better support for officers. Authorities have called on local residents for information.{{Cite web |date=2025-05-02 |title=5 Police Officers Killed, 5 Injured in al Shabaab Ambush in Lamu's Boni Forest |url=https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/news/2025/05/5-police-officers-killed-5-injured-in-al-shabaab-ambush-in-lamus-boni-forest/ |access-date=2025-05-05 |website=Capital News |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-05-04 |title=Kenya in pursuit of Al-Shabaab militants after death of 5 officers |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/world/africa/kenya-in-pursuit-of-al-shabaab-militants-after-death-of-5-officers |access-date=2025-05-05 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}}

On May 5, the Somali Danab special forces, supported by Jubaland police, conducted a coordinated operation targeting Al-Shabaab in Lower Juba. The offensive aimed to dismantle Al-Shabaab infrastructure used for planning attacks. Several militant hideouts and operational centers were destroyed. The primary goal is to restore security in the region, especially around Kismayo. Officials urged local residents to support the security forces in rooting out the insurgents.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-05-05 |title=Somali Forces Conduct Joint Operation Against Al-Shabaab in Lower Juba region |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somali-forces-conduct-joint-operation-against-al-shabaab-in-lower-juba-region/ |access-date=2025-05-05 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2025-05-05 |title=Danab Commandos conduct operations against the militant group of Al-Shabab in Lower Jubba region |url=https://somalilandstandard.com/danab-commandos-conduct-operations-against-the-militant-group-of-al-shabab-in-lower-jubba-region/ |access-date=2025-05-05 |website=Somaliland Standard |language=en}} A heavy explosion targeted Ethiopian troops traveling near Baidoa, Somalia, causing deaths, injuries, and significant vehicle damage. The Transitional Federal Government of South West Somalia and Ethiopian officials have not commented. Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility, stating they inflicted heavy casualties on the Ethiopian forces in a planned operation.{{Cite web |last=Maxamed |first=Jamaal |date=2025-05-05 |title=Qarax culus oo ciidamada Itoobiya lagula beegsaday duleedka Baydhaba |trans-title=Heavy explosion targets Ethiopian troops on the outskirts of Baidoa |url=https://www.caasimada.net/xogta-qarax-culus-oo-ciidamada-itoobiya-lagula-eedtay-duleedka-baydhaba/ |access-date=2025-05-05 |website=Caasimada Online |language=en-US}}

On May 17, Colonel Abdirahman Hujale, commander of the 26th Brigade of the 27th Division of the Somali National Army, was assassinated while commanding reinforcements near the Moqokori frontline in the Hiran region. Al-Shabaab claimed that 22 national army soldiers were killed in the fighting in Moqokori. The Somali Air Force's air strikes allegedly hit the positions of the Mawisley militia.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-05-18 |title=Top Somali army commander killed leading fight against militants {{!}} Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/top-somali-army-commander-killed-leading-fight-against-militants/ |access-date=2025-05-25 |website=Somali guardian |language=en-US}}

On May 19, Somali National Army and local forces engaged in gun fight with Al-Shabaab militants and managed to kill 70 militants in border between Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle.{{Cite news|title=Somali Army, Local Forces Kill 70 Al-Shabaab Fighters in Hiiraan-Middle Shabelle Offensive|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/somali-army-local-forces-kill-70-al-shabaab-fighters-in-hiiraan-middle-shabelle-offensive/|access-date=2025-05-22|website=goobjoog }}

On May 22, Security forces in the Juba region killed 48 Al-Shabaab militants and captured few alive and huge cache of weapons was also seized in the Operation.{{Cite news|title=SNA Displays Weapons Captured in Fight Against Al-Shabaab in Lower Juba Region|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/sna-displays-weapons-captured-in-fight-against-al-shabaab-in-lower-juba-region/|access-date=2024-05-22|website=goobjoog}}

On May 29, the Somali National Army, with the support of local militias, launched a coordinated attack on al-Shabaab positions in the Aboorey area of Buula Burte County in the Hiiraan region. Abu Hanifa, the commander of al-Shabaab in the Aboorey area, was killed, and several other militants were killed.{{Cite web |title=Somali forces kill Al-Shabaab commander in joint offensive in Hiiraan region |url=http://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/may/201674/somali_forces_kill_al_shabaab_commander_in_joint_offensive_in_hiiraan_region.aspx |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}}

On June 2, Al-Shabaab militants have reportedly taken control of Hawadley village, located 91 kilometers northeast of Mogadishu, after Burundian forces under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) withdrew from the strategic military base.{{Cite web |last=Somalia |first=F. T. L. |date=2025-06-02 |title=Al-Shabaab Seizes Hawadley After AU Forces Withdraw - Somali News today Live |url=https://www.ftlsomalia.com/al-shabaab-seizes-hawadley-after-au-forces-withdraw/ |access-date=2025-06-02 |website=FTL Somalia |language=en-US}} {{Cite web |last=Reporter |first=Staff |date=2025-06-02 |title=Al-Shabaab Militants Seize Control of Hawadley in Middle Shabelle Region |url=https://en.kaabtv.com/al-shabaab-militants-seize-control-of-hawadley-in-middle-shabelle-region/ |access-date=2025-06-02 |website=Kaab TV |language=en-US}} additionally the militant claims it shot down an African Union helicopter used by Burundian troops near Hawadley area in Middle Shabelle region.{{Cite web |date=2025-06-02 |title=AU Helicopter Downed — Al-Shabab |url=https://mareeg.com/au-helicopter-downed-al-shabab/ |access-date=2025-06-02 |website=Mareeg |language=en-US}}The Somali Defence minister rejected this claim saying Helicopter in fact suffered technical malfunctions but was retrieved soon after.{{Cite news|title=Somalia Steps Up Anti-al Shabaab Offensive, Denies Militant Claim of Downing AU Helicopter|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/somalia-steps-up-anti-al-shabaab-offensive-denies-militant-claim-of-downing-au-helicopter/|access-date=2025-06-08|website=goobjoog}}

On June 7, an operation executed by the SNA eliminated more than 40 Al-Shabaab militants including two Senior commanders. The Commanders were Abuu Anas, who was Al-Shabaab ’s chief logistics coordinator for combat units, and Mohamed Ahmed, a senior field commander.{{Cite news|title=Somali Forces Eliminate Key Al Shabaab Commanders in Strategic Anti-Terror Raid|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/somali-forces-eliminate-key-al-shabaab-commanders-in-strategic-anti-terror-raid/|access-date=2025-06-08|website=goobjoog}}

On June 8, three Senior Field commanders of Al-Shabaab was killed in an operation by SNA in Central Hiraan region.{{Cite news|title=Three Al Shabaab Ringleaders Killed in Central Somalia Offensive|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/three-al-shabaab-ringleaders-killed-in-central-somalia-offensive/|access-date=2025-06-08|website=goobjoog}}

On June 11, Kenyan Security Forces killed two Al-Shabaab militants while others fled with injuries. The clash occured when militants were trying to set up an IED in a roadside in Mandera County, Kenya.{{Cite news|title=Kenya's Elite Forces Kill Two Al Shabaab Militants in Pre-Dawn Ambush Near Somali Border|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/kenyas-elite-forces-kill-two-al-shabaab-militants-in-pre-dawn-ambush-near-somali-border/|access-date=2025-06-13|website=goobjoog}}

On the same day, Al-Shabaab militants captured the town of El Hareeri in Hiraan region pushing out SNA and local militias from the area.{{Cite news|title=Al-Shabaab Seizes Strategic Area Amid Fierce Clashes in Central Somalia|url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/al-shabaab-seizes-strategic-area-amid-fierce-clashes-in-central-somalia|access-date=2025-06-18|website=Garowe Online}}

On June 12, an operation by SNA killed 13 Al-Shabaab militants in middle Shabelle region.{{Cite news|title=Somali Army Kills 13 Al-Shabaab Militants in Middle Shabelle Operation|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/somali-army-kills-13-al-shabaab-militants-in-middle-shabelle-operation/|access-date=2025-06-13|website=goobjoog}}

{{more citations needed|date=May 2025}}

Due to the attacks, on March 4, 2025, the United Nations Security Council extended their sanctions against al-Shabaab focusing on illegal arms exports and charcoal exports.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-04 |title=UN extends sanctions on Al-Qaeda-linked militant group in Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/un-extends-sanctions-on-al-qaeda-linked-militant-group-in-somalia |access-date=2025-03-04 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} The sanctions are going to be in effect until December 13, 2025, with the renewal of a committee of experts that will monitor the sanctions on al-Shabaab until January 13, 2026.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-04 |title=Muddo intee le'eg ayaa lagu kordhiyay cunaqabateynta saaran al-Shabaab? |trans-title=How long has the sanctions on al-Shabaab been extended? |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/c757rwd6xq2o |access-date=2025-03-04 |website=BBC News |language=so}}

Because of al-Shabaab's offensive, Puntland's Minister of Justice and Religious Affairs, Mohamed Abdiwahaab, accused the Federal Government of Somalia of not properly stopping attacks and not doing enough against al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-04 |title=Puntland minister blames Somalia's government for failing to counter Al-Shabaab, IS |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200519/puntland_minister_blames_somalia_s_government_for_failing_to_counter_al_shabaab_is.aspx |access-date=2025-03-04 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} Though, on March 5, 2025, Ahmed Mohamed Islam made a press release stating that they would fight alongside Somali government military forces and the Ma'awisley clan militias in Jubaland against al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-05 |title=Axmed Madoobe Oo Ka Dagaalka Gobolka Shabeellaha Dhexe |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/axmed-madoobe-oo-ka-dagaalka-gobolka-shabeellaha-dhexe |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}}

On March 5, 2025, former President of Somalia, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister, Hassan Ali Khaire, and member of the Somali parliament, Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame issued a joint press statement supporting the brave forces fighting against al-Shabaab and the Islamic State.{{Cite web |last=Muuse |first=Guuleed |date=2025-03-05 |title=Shariif, Kheyre iyo CC Shakuur oo dalbaday in deg-deg wax looga qabto halis soo korortay |trans-title=Sharif, Kheyre and CC Shakur demand urgent action to address increased threat |url=https://www.caasimada.net/shariif-kheyre-iyo-cc-shakuur-oo-dalbaday-in-deg-deg-wax-looga-qabto-halis-soo-korortay/#google_vignette |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Caasimada |language=so}} Though they said that the President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, had engaged in political conflict with some of the states of Somalia, which had stalled the operations against al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-05 |title=Madaxdii hore ee dalka oo taageeray howlgallada ka dhanka ah Shabaab iyo Daacish, balse ku baaqay in dib u eegis lagu sameeyo |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta5-189530.htm |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Hiiraan Online}}

After the offensive expanded, the United States Embassy in Somalia warned of the possibility of terrorist attacks including the Aden Adde International Airport in the capital, Mogadishu calling on American citizens in Somalia to exercise caution and avoid gatherings and demonstrations. It also announced the cancellation of all movements of its employees until further notice, as part of precautionary measures to confront potential threats.{{Cite web |last=Mahmoud |first=Mustafa |date=2025-03-05 |title=تحذيرات أمريكية من هجمات إرهابية.. ماذا يحدث في الصومال؟ |script-title=ar:تحذيرات أمريكية من هجمات إرهابية.. ماذا يحدث في الصومال؟ |trans-title=US warnings of terrorist attacks.. What is happening in Somalia? |url=https://www.akhbar-sharq.com/news/37706 |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=Akhbar Sharq |language=ar}} The Somali government attempted to downplay the warning with the Somali Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Fardowsa Osman Egal, insisting there was no imminent threat that justified the flight cancellations. "There is no security situation that warrants the suspension of international flights to Mogadishu," Egal told Voice of America Somali. "We continue to receive complete intelligence briefings, and no direct threats have been relayed to us."{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=Somalia downplays security concerns after U.S. terror warning suspends flights |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200570/somalia_downplays_security_concerns_after_u_s_terror_warning_suspends_flights.aspx |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}} The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accused the United States of sending out these alerts to undermine and destabilize the Somali government and to cause mass paranoia and panic.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-08 |title=Somalia's president accuses US of 'fake' terror alerts aimed at undermining his government |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/somalias-president-accuses-us-of-fake-terror-alerts-aimed-at-undermining-his-government/ |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} Turkish Airlines as a result temporarily suspended all flights to Somalia's capital Mogadishu until March 12 following the US terror alert,{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-06 |title=Turkish Airlines halts flights to Somalia following US terror alert |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/turkish-airlines-halts-flights-to-somalia-following-us-terror-alert/ |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=Somalia Bans Weapons at Mogadishu Airport After U.S. Warns of Al-Shabaab Attack |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-bans-weapons-at-mogadishu-airport-after-u-s-warns-of-al-shabaab-attack |access-date=2025-03-07 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} while Qatar Airways suspended all flight to Mogadishu indefinitely.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-07 |title=Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways Suspend Mogadishu Flights Following US Embassy Terror Alert, Raising Security Concerns at Aden Adde International Airport – Travel And Tour World |url=https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/turkish-airlines-and-qatar-airways-suspend-mogadishu-flights-following-us-embassy-terror-alert-raising-security-concerns-at-aden-adde-international-airport/ |access-date=2025-03-09 |language=en-US}}

On March 6, 2025, the Somalia's Council of Ministers expanded security in Mogadishu due to the advances by al-Shabaab and to fight against al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-06 |title=Somalia announces tougher security measures to combat Al-Shabaab |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200559/somalia_announces_tougher_security_measures_to_combat_al_shabaab.aspx |access-date=2025-03-06 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

On March 15, 2025, Puntland's Minister of Information, Mohamud Aydid Diri, warned Somalia might undergo the same fate that happened with Afghanistan: "Most American diplomats have been evacuated. We fear Mogadishu could face the same fate as Afghanistan."{{Cite web |date=2025-03-15 |title=Puntland warns Mogadishu faces security threats like Afghanistan |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200713/puntland_warns_mogadishu_faces_security_threats_like_afghanistan.aspx |access-date=2025-03-15 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

Though supporting Somalia with air strikes against al-Shabaab, Ethiopia, on March 17, 2025, officially stated they would not put infantry troops into Somalia.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-17 |title=Ethiopia 'has no plans to deploy its infantry' in Somalia's Middle Shabelle region amid militant advance |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/ethiopia-has-no-plans-to-deploy-its-infantry-in-somalias-middle-shabelle-region-amid-militant-advance/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=Somali Guardian |language=en-US}} On the same day, the President of Hirshabelle State, Ali Abdullahi Hussein, who recently returned to his office for a brief period, held a virtual meeting with the United States Ambassador to Somalia, Mr. Richard H. Riley where they discussed the ongoing military operations against extremist groups in Hirshabelle including al-Shabaab and the Islamic State in Somalia.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-13 |title=President Guudlaawe Holds Virtual Meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Somalia – Mustaqbal Media |url=https://mustaqbalmedia.net/en/president-guudlaawe-holds-virtual-meeting-with-u-s-ambassador-to-somalia/ |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=Mustaqbal Media – (English) |language=en}}

On March 21, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud with the governor of Middle Shabelle Region, the former governor of that region, the governor of Yaaqshiid district in Mogadishu, military officers, and other officials conducted a meeting in the Adale District about accelerating the ongoing counter-terrorism operation in HirShabelle with plans on attempting to eliminate al-Shabaab from Middle Shabelle before Eid al-Fitr.{{Cite web |last=Gacal |first=Zahra Axmed |date=2025-03-21 |title=Sawirro: Xasan Sheekh oo kulamo ka wada Cadale iyo xogta qorshaha socda |trans-title=Photos: Hassan Sheikh holding meetings in Adale and information on the ongoing plan |url=https://www.caasimada.net/sawirro-xasan-sheekh-oo-kulamo-ka-wada-cadale-iyo-xogta-qorshaha-socda/ |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=Caasimada Online |language=en-US}}

On March 28, the director of the National Security and Intelligence Agency, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sambaloolshe, accompanied by Hirshabelle Vice President Yusuf Ahmed Hagar Dabageed, held a meeting in the Moqokori District with the traditional elders of that district, with the meeting focused on strengthening security and accelerating operations against Al-Shabaab, especially in the Middle Shabelle region where operations against Al-Shabaab are underway.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-28 |title=Agaasimaha Hay'adda NISA oo kulamo lagu dardar galinaayo dagaalka Al-shabaab ka bilaabay degmada Moqokori |trans-title=NISA Director holds meetings to accelerate fight against Al-Shabaab in Moqokori district |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta28-189771.htm |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=Hiiraan Online}} This was proceeded by former intelligence chief Fahad Yasin urged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to unite opposition politicians and convene a national forum to develop a unified counter-terrorism strategy. He stated his readiness to set aside political differences, offer advice, and demonstrate solidarity to combat terrorism. Fahad Yasin requested an open and unconditional forum for all parties to contribute to the country's safety, emphasizing the need for unity and putting aside divisive issues.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-28 |title=Fahad Yaasiin oo codsi xasaasi ah u diray Madaxweyne Xasan Sheekh |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=371867 |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Allbanaadir.com |language=en-US}} On the same day, the Commander of the Somali Police Force, Brigadier General Asad Osman Abdullahi, and his deputy chaired a meeting to discuss accelerating the fight against Al-Shabaab and improving national security. The meeting reviewed security reports from across the country, discussing the successes and challenges in combating Al-Shabaab. The Commander thanked the public for their support and urged officers to act quickly on public information to counter Al-Shabaab's attacks. This meeting occurs as the Somali government intensifies its efforts against Al-Shabaab, particularly following recent attacks in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions.{{Cite web |last=Cade |first=Cabdi |date=2025-03-28 |title=Kulan xasaasi ah oo looga hadlayay dagaalka Al Shabaab oo ka dhacay Muqdisho |url=https://www.allbanaadir.org/?p=371882 |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Allbanaadir.com |language=en-US}}

On March 30, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is calling for national unity among political leaders, including rivals, to strengthen the fight against Al-Shabaab and advance Somalia's federal system. He emphasized the need for broad political consensus and inclusion in security and state-building efforts. This appeal comes amid tensions with federal member states and former presidents who have criticized the current administration's handling of elections, constitutional principles, and the war on Al-Shabaab. The call for unity follows recent military successes against Al-Shabaab but acknowledges the group's continued threat and the need for a unified counterterrorism strategy to combat the long-standing insurgency.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-30 |title=Somali President invites political rivals to unite in counterterrorism and state-building efforts |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200916/somali_president_invites_political_rivals_to_unite_in_counterterrorism_and_state_building_efforts.aspx |access-date=2025-03-31 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

On April 18, Former Somali Prime Minister Ali Mohammed Ghedi criticized the recent recapture of towns in Middle Shabelle by Al-Shabaab, calling it a national disgrace in a statement titled "Shame and Humiliation." Referring to six towns Gedi questioned why areas liberated two years ago were lost again, raising concerns about political failure, lack of strategy, and military shortcomings. He urged the federal government and the HirShabelle administration to develop a unified political, military, and defensive strategy to permanently defeat Al-Shabaab. Gedi warned that the militant group's return threatens infrastructure and development projects like hospitals, schools, mosques, and security centers. He called on all Somali regions and citizens to unite in combating Al-Shabaab and ISIS to ensure lasting peace and stability in Somalia.{{Cite web |last=Gacal |first=Zahra Axmed |date=2025-04-18 |title=Geedi oo su'aalo xasaasi ah ka keenay sababta Al-Shabaab u qabsadeen Sh/Dhexe |trans-title=Ghedi raised sensitive questions about why Al-Shabaab captured areas |url=https://www.caasimada.net/geedi-oo-suaalo-xasaasi-ah-ka-keenay-sababta-al-shabaab-u-qabsadeen-sh-dhexe/ |access-date=2025-04-19 |website=Caasimada Online |language=so}} Somalia's Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi has strongly condemned Ambassador Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, the Acting Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, accusing him of sympathizing with Al-Shabaab. Fiqi claims Bam submitted misleading reports to international bodies, portraying the terrorist group in a favorable light, as seeking statehood and minimizing civilian harm, which the Minister denounced as a distortion of reality. Fiqi stated that Bam's actions show clear bias and undermine Somalia's fight against terrorism. As a result, the Somali government is seriously considering expelling Bam for what it views as a betrayal of trust. This controversy signals rising tensions between Somalia and the African Union over the role and direction of ATMIS, which was established to support Somalia's transition to stable security.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-04-18 |title=Somalia Accuses AU Mission Head of Supporting Al-Shabaab, Signals Potential Expulsion |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somalia-accuses-au-mission-head-of-supporting-al-shabaab-signals-potential-expulsion/ |access-date=2025-04-19 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}

On April 20, Professor Mohamed Haji Ingariis projected that al-Shabaab would likely take over Mogadishu and the federal government building, stating in an essay, that Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was acting "irritational" about the situation and that their chances of taking Mogadishu has increased since the Al-Shabaab take over the Adan-Yabal district of the Middle Shabelle region.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-20 |title=Walaaca Laga Qabo Masiirka Dowladda Fedaraalka oo Isa Soo Taraya. |trans-title=Concern about the situation of the Federal Government. |url=https://radiofurqaan.net/walaaca-laga-qabo-masiirka-dowladda-fedaraalka-oo-isa-soo-taraya-dhageyso/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=Radio al-Furqan |language=so}} Somali militia leader Cali Jeyte Cismaan proposed relocating the wives and children of al-Shabaab militants to areas controlled by the group. He argued that it is unacceptable for their families to live peacefully in government-held cities while militants continue their attacks. Jeyte emphasized he wasn't calling for violence against children, but wanted families moved so al-Shabaab feels the burden of their actions. He also condemned the group as worse than past colonial powers, accusing them of unjustified violence. He urged the Somali public to unite in fighting against al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-20 |title=Hoggaamiye Cali Jeyte "Waxaan ku talinaya in Al-shabaab laga daba raro naagahooda iyo Ilmahooda magaalooyinka jooga" |trans-title=Leader Ali Jeyte "I recommend the removal of the wives and children of Al-Shabaab in the cities" |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Apr/wararka_maanta20-190002.htm |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Hiiraan Online}}

On April 19, Somali President Hasan Sheikh Mohamud had a meeting with General Yusuf Odowaa Rage, the commander of the Somali National Army, and other officers, at Villa Somalia in Mogadishu following Al-Shabaab's recapture of the strategic town of Adan Yabal in central Somalia where Mohamud instructed the senior military leadership to immediately launch new operations to reclaim the town and other areas recently captured by Al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |last=Nor |first=Omar |date=2025-04-20 |title=Somali President orders military to retake Adan Yabal town after strategic setback |url=https://shabellemedia.com/somali-president-orders-military-to-retake-al-shabaab-held-town-after-strategic-setback/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=Shabelle Media Network |language=en-US}}

On April 25, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) urgently called for the rapid deployment of 8,000 additional peacekeepers and international funding for Somalia's AUSSOM mission due to a surge in Al-Shabaab attacks that have reversed recent progress. AUSSOM faced a $96 million funding shortfall, impacting logistics and resupply. Al-Shabaab's offensive worsened humanitarian conditions, displacing millions and disrupting essential services. The Kampala summit produced recommendations including troop deployment, expanded air support, local force recruitment, and strengthened coordination. IGAD also urged for regional logistical support and a donor summit.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-25 |title=IGAD urges 8,000 more troops and funding as al-Shabaab threatens Somalia mission |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Apr/201277/igad_urges_8_000_more_troops_and_funding_as_al_shabaab_threatens_somalia_mission.aspx |access-date=2025-04-25 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

• 2021 Taliban offensive
• 2024 Syrian opposition offensives
• 1975 spring offensive

{{Reflist}}

{{Somali Civil War (2009–present)}}

{{coord missing|Somalia}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Shabelle offensive, 2025}}

Category:Terrorist incidents in Somalia in 2025

Category:Battles of the Somali Civil War (2009–present)

Category:February 2025 in Somalia

Category:March 2025 in Somalia

Category:Al-Shabaab (militant group) attacks

Category:Ambushes in Somalia

Category:Car and truck bombings in 2025

Category:Suicide bombings in 2025

Category:Aerial operations and battles involving the United States

Category:Suicide car and truck bombings in Somalia

Category:2025 airstrikes

Category:Attacks on military installations in 2025

Category:Attacks on military installations in Somalia

Category:Aerial operations and battles involving Ethiopia

Category:Battles of the Somali Civil War involving Ethiopia

Category:Battles of the Somali Civil War involving the United States

Category:21st-century history of the United States Air Force

Category:Battles involving al-Shabaab (militant group)

Category:Middle Shabelle

Category:Hiran, Somalia

Category:Battles of the Somali Civil War involving Kenya

Category:Battles involving Somaliland

Category:Campaigns of the Somali Civil War

Category:Military campaigns involving Ethiopia

Category:Military campaigns involving the United States

Category:April 2025 in Somalia

Category:Battles involving Turkey