JidbaaleMinnesota Somalis have expressed support for Puntland’s ISIS war, condemning the federal government and the Somali government’s passivity in the fight against the terrorist group. President Donald Trump authorized airstrikes on February 1, killing one of ISIS leaders and several terrorists in a remote mountainous cave complex in Somalia’s Puntland area. The Somali government has politicized the fight from the very beginning, ignoring its civilians and politicizing the fight against ISIS. Puntland’s campaign, “Operation Hillaac,” has achieved great success in pushing out the terrorist group.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hailed the United States for its “unwavering support” and “in our shared fight against terrorism.” He complimented President Trump’s “bold and decisive leadership” in counterterrorism efforts, noting that the U.S. president’s actions were highly valued and welcomed in Somalia. However, the Somali government has been accused of ignoring its civilians and politicizing the fight against ISIS.
Mohamed Dini, a member of the Somalia parliament and longtime Minnesota resident, said the struggle against ISIS has widened the political rift between Puntland and the federal government. He highlighted the need for Somali government cooperation and continuing U.S. commitment, including a military presence and strikes against this increasing terrorist network. Puntland military, assisted by the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates, have effectively battled ISIS. This week, Puntland police killed at least 44 ISIS militants in a counterterrorism operation targeting insurgent hideouts in the Al-Miskaad Mountains.
Mohamed Keynan, Chairman of the Puntland diaspora in Minnesota, asked the community to heed the call to action from Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni to support the fight against ISIS. Local organizations have already been formed to organize relief and fundraising efforts among the Minnesota Somali community.
