In brief
In the al-Miskad mountains of Somalia, military forces battle to root out ISIS as the group poses a persistent threat despite some setbacks. Local communities share their experiences of fear, loss, and resilience as they confront the militants supported by international forces. The struggle continues, illustrating the complexities of counter-terrorism in a harsh, dynamic landscape.
In Somalia's remote al-Miskad mountains, military operations intensify as soldiers use drone technology to track Islamic State group fighters. They share the responsibility of dismantling a network that has taken root in a landscape previously inhabited by a few nomadic communities.
As of early 2026, General Michael Langley warned Congress about the influence of ISIS in Somalia, highlighting its central role in a global terror strategy after losing ground in Iraq and Syria. U.S. support has included airstrikes, with over sixty assaults reported in 2025 alone.
Local forces, including the Puntland Defence Forces, continue to confront ISIS despite some marginal gains. They have pushed the militants out of significant urban regions like Bosaso but remain vulnerable in the mountains where ISIS retains hideouts.
Human rights concerns surface as detainees face harsh retributions, including the risk of the death penalty. Amidst peril, community members recount personal tragedies, revealing the deep scars left by ISIS's brutal regime.
Women like Muna Ali Dahir join the fight, motivated by a deep sense of belonging and duty. However, conditions on the ground remain dire, with basic amenities scarce, yet spirits resilient.
As local commanders prepare for impending battles, they express a resolve to eliminate ISIS entirely, underscoring a long-term commitment to reclaiming their homeland.
