Hiiraan, Somalia – The Somali National Army (SNA), in coordination with local allied forces, launched a major offensive against the Al-Shabaab militant group early Tuesday morning in the Hiiraan region. The operation, which began near the village of Ceel-Hareeri, aims to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s stronghold in central Somalia and restore government control over contested areas.
According to military sources, heavy fighting erupted as the joint forces advanced toward militant-held territories. Several key areas around Ceel-Hareeri have already been liberated, with operations continuing to push deeper into Al-Shabaab-controlled zones.
“The objective is clear—to eliminate the threat posed by Al-Shabaab and reclaim territories for the people of Somalia,” said a senior SNA officer leading the campaign. In his view, the operation is part of a broader effort to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
Local residents reported hearing intense gunfire and explosions throughout the morning. Government troops have urged civilians to remain in safe areas as the fighting continues.
The offensive follows a series of coordinated military actions in central Somalia, where Al-Shabaab fighters have been staging attacks on civilians and security forces. The Hiiraan region, strategically located in central Somalia, has long been a battleground between government forces and the militant group.
The Federal Government of Somalia has yet to release official casualty figures, but military sources suggest that several Al-Shabaab fighters have been killed or wounded.
This latest push reflects the government’s renewed commitment to defeating terrorism and restoring security across the country as part of the ongoing national stabilization plan.
More updates will follow as the situation develops.
