Mogadishu, Somalia — Senior Somali officials today held high-level consultations aimed at enhancing accountability and safeguarding civilians amid ongoing military operations against Al-Shabaab.
Omar Hashi, a prominent government figure, met with the leadership of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), led by Land Forces Commander General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, during a strategic engagement in Mogadishu.
The discussions focused on the operational realities confronting troops on the frontlines and the crucial role of a robust Civilian Protection Policy in counterinsurgency operations.
According to officials at the meeting, both sides exchanged perspectives on balancing offensive operations with humanitarian safeguards. They underscored the need for a comprehensive operational framework that not only supports military effectiveness but also strengthens community trust in security institutions.
“Civilian protection is not just a legal obligation, it is a strategic imperative,” one participant noted, stressing that long-term stability depends on minimizing harm to non-combatants and improving engagement with local populations in liberated areas.
The proposed framework is expected to establish clearer guidelines on rules of engagement, conduct during urban operations, evacuation protocols, and coordination with local authorities and humanitarian actors.
Gen. Sahal reaffirmed SNAF’s commitment to implementing international standards of conduct, while Hon. Hashi emphasized that government institutions must take the lead in formalizing oversight and enforcement mechanisms.
The meeting comes as Somali forces press ahead with Phase Three of ongoing offensives across multiple fronts, backed by regional and international partners. Officials say integrating civilian protection measures into battlefield protocols will be vital to sustaining gains and preventing extremist propaganda from exploiting any alleged misconduct.
Further consultations are expected in the coming weeks as policymakers and military leaders work toward institutionalizing the policy into national doctrine.