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In support of a military operation led by the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) conducted airstrikes against al Shabaab on May 21, 2025. 

The airstrikes, backing a Somali-led operation, occurred approximately 27 miles northwest of Kismayo, Somalia.

AFRICOM's operational efforts are critical to countering transnational threats, and supporting the Federal Government of Somalia's offensive posture against violent extremist organizations ensures the promotion of regional security and advancement of national interests.  

Al Shabaab has proven both its will and capability to attack U.S. forces.

AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take decisive action to degrade al-Shabaab's ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.

Specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security.

U.S. Africa Command, one of 11 U.S. Department of Defense combatant commands with an area of responsibility covering 53 African states, more than 800 ethnic groups, over 1,000 languages, vast natural resources, a land mass that is three-and-a-half times the size of the U.S., and nearly 19,000 miles of coastland. Working alongside its partners, AFRICOM counters transnational threats and malign actors, strengthens security forces and responds to crises.