US military has destroyed al-Shabaab base following airstrike in southern Somalia, US said.
In a statement, U.S. Africa Command said in coordination with Somali government, U.S. military conducted an airstrike targeting an al-Shabaab compound in the vicinity of Jilib, Somalia, Feb. 17.
“We’re working with our partners to adversely impact al-Shabaab’s operations and ability to attack our Somali and East African partners,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Miguel Castellanos, deputy director of operations, U.S. Africa Command. “It is important to counter this al-Qaeda-aligned group’s ability and intent to plan and carry out attacks in Somalia and more broadly. This precision strike does just that.”
The mission said Initial assessments conclude one al-Shabaab facility was destroyed as a result of the airstrike.
“We currently assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike,” Africom said.
It emphasised that Somalia remains key to the security environment of East Africa, and its long-term stability is important to advancing U.S. interests in the region.
“We will continue to work together on our support of the Federal Government of Somalia in its effort to bring improved governance, development and stability to the Somali people,” it assured.
