Security push, new laws and diplomacy: Somalia briefing

Jan 05, 2026 — Multiple SNA operations; Parliament and diplomacy updates

Top story

• Overview: Somalia’s security forces reported a string of coordinated operations this week that targeted Al-Shabaab leadership and bases across multiple regions — the Defence Minister named senior militant figures killed and said special forces operations in Middle Juba, Bay and other areas eliminated and captured dozens of fighters. (Reported operations include a Jilib raid that killed 15 and captured 8, a Buula Fuleey operation killing 20+, and other strikes.)
• Why it matters: Officials say these actions hit the group's command, disrupted external operations and targeted its media (a radio station was destroyed), which the government frames as weakening Al-Shabaab’s capacity to plan attacks.
• Sources: Primary: Defence minister details operations; Also from: SNA: 15 militants killed, 8 captured (Jilib), SNA & partners: 20+ militants killed (Buula Fuleey)

What else happened

• Elections / Governance: Parliament approved the Medicine Bill — 141 MPs voted for the proposal, one abstained and none opposed. (SONNA)
• Diplomacy: Foreign Affairs Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali met Saudi FM Prince Faisal in Riyadh; both sides reaffirmed support for Somalia’s sovereignty and discussed bilateral co‑operation. (SONNA)
• Diplomacy / Defence co‑operation: Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi received the British Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, discussing defence collaboration, training and counter‑terrorism cooperation. (SONNA)
• Security — local operations: Gor‑Gor commandos, the 14 October Brigade and NISA moved into Marka (Lower Shabelle); residents welcomed forces after militants fled and local units were deployed. (SONNA)
• Security — frontline actions: The SNA and community forces say they repelled an attempted Khawaarij assault in Wargaadhi (Middle Shabelle), killed the militant commander and restored control of the area. (SONNA)
• Military posture: Major General Sahal Abdullahi Omar inspected SNA bases and brigades in Beledweyne, assessing readiness and urging accelerated operations against Al‑Shabaab. (SONNA)
• Government visits: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre visited Dhusamareb, praised visible progress in the Galmudug capital and urged the community to consolidate peace and development. (SONNA)

On the ground

• Residents of the Jilib/Marka area reportedly welcomed national forces after militants fled; locals said they had suffered extortion and intimidation under Al‑Shabaab. (SONNA)
• Troop morale and readiness featured in multiple reports: the SNA commander’s inspection in Beledweyne and statements praising Danab forces stress ongoing mobilisation at forward bases. (SONNA)
• Officials highlighted destroyed militant infrastructure — including a radio station used by Al‑Shabaab — as tangible results from recent raids. (SONNA)

Watchlist

• Follow official confirmation and details about the senior Al‑Shabaab leaders the Defence Ministry named and any verification from partners. (SONNA)
• Expect updates on the reported siege of around 500 militants near Jabad Godane mentioned by the Defence Minister — outcome and timelines remain unclear. (SONNA)
• Monitor security and civilian stability in newly cleared areas (Marka, Jilib, Buula Fuleey, Wargaadhi) and any return of services to residents. (SONNA)
• Track implementation steps and public roll‑out tied to the new Medicine Bill after parliamentary approval. (SONNA)

Sources: Somali National News Agency (SONNA)

Compiled from public reporting; links above.