Holac Posted October 2, 2016 UPDATE: U.S. self-defense strikes in Somalia On September 28, in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces conducted a self-defense strike against al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-associated terrorist group, in Galcayo, Somalia. During a Somali-led counterterrorism operation to disrupt an al-Shabaab Improvised Explosive Device (IED) making network, a group of armed al-Shabaab fighters attacked, threatening the safety and security of the Somali force and their U.S. advisors. Somali forces returned fire in self-defense. The U.S. conducted a self-defense strike to neutralize the threat, killing nine (9) enemy fighters. We have seen reports alleging non-combatant casualties as a result of this defensive strike. We have assessed all credible evidence and determined those reports are incorrect. As with all such allegations, we take this one seriously. Once an allegation of non-combatant casualties is reported, we conduct a review of all available relevant information. The review includes all relevant and credible information provided from numerous sources, including reports posted to social media. If the allegation is initially determined to be credible, additional levels of assessment are conducted. The U.S. remains committed to our partners in eliminating terrorism and advancing security in the region. Violent extremists endanger the safety and stability of the Somali people; countering these threats remains in our common interests. (UPDATED as of 6:15 p.m. Sept. 29, 2016) http://www.africom.mil/NewsByCategory/pressrelease/28423/update-u-s-self-defense-strikes-in-somalia Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Holac Posted October 2, 2016 The Shabab militia didn't want the US to help Puntland dismantle the suicide/IED making network based in Galmudug. The mission of the militia that night was to overrun the American/PIS base on the outskirts of Galkaio and kill everyone. If the terrorist succeeded that night and killed the Americans and PIS members, I am very positive Galmudug would be singing a different tune, distancing itself from the incident. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites