By Mohammed A Mohammud (Baldho)

The Islamic State (IS) Somalia was reportedly formed in 2015 by a group of defectors from Al Shabab who pledged allegiance to ISIS. In 2018, the group gained recognition as an official province of ISIS. IS-Somalia follows ISIS’s strict interpretation of Islamic Sharia law and seeks to expand the self-proclaimed caliphate in Africa.

Strategic Importance of Puntland

Puntland’s geographic location, where the Indian Ocean meets the Gulf of Aden, provides IS-Somalia with logistical advantages and natural defensive terrain. This region has become a financial and operational hub for ISIS, with revenues from extortion funding operations across Somalia.

Despite this threat, the Puntland administration under Said Deni has struggled to mount significant counter-offensives. This lack of significant military intervention has allowed IS-Somalia to consolidate its presence, enhancing its military capabilities and expanding its influence. Since its establishment in the region, the group has been led by Abdulqadir Mumin, a pivotal figure who has attracted the attention of global counterterrorism efforts. Security experts suggest that Mumin may now hold the position of global leader within the Islamic State. The group has also successfully outmanoeuvred its primary rival, Al-Shabaab, securing critical breathing room and consolidating its influence. Moreover, Puntland’s role as a logistical and financial hub for the Islamic State’s operations in Africa and beyond has further bolstered its strategic importance.

Comparison with Al-Shabaab

While both groups share extremist ideologies, their affiliations differ: ISSomalia aligns with the Islamic State, whereas Al-Shabaab is linked to AlQaeda. IS-Somalia operates primarily in north-eastern Somalia, leveraging its brutal tactics to secure dominance in Puntland’s rugged terrain. The rivalry between IS-Somalia and Al-Shabaab is intense. Both groups generate millions of dollars monthly through extortion from small businesses, companies, and contractors. Reports indicate that they also siphon funds from government employee salaries and aid workers payments. Before IS-Somalia’s emergence, its key members were primarily former Al-Shabaab operatives, particularly from the south. The group is notorious for its brutal tactics, including beheadings, torture, and extortion.

The influence and operational model of ISSomalia differ significantly from those of Al-Shabaab entities. Despite AlShabaab being larger and better equipped, it views IS-Somalia’s ambitions for expansion as a direct threat. Its rivalry with Al-Shabaab has been marked by violent clashes, particularly in the Calmiskaat mountains, where ISIS has gained the upper hand in recent years. This development has heightened concerns for the Puntland government and its international partners. Interestingly, AlShabaab appears more alarmed by the rise of IS-Somalia than other external.

Hillac Operation After months of preparation, Puntland Security Forces (PSF) have launched an offensive against IS-Somalia in the mountainous region east of Bosaso city. This military operation, named Hillac, aims to dismantle ISIS strongholds in the Bari region and eradicate IS-Somalia operatives. The operation has been meticulously planned over three months, involving security forces from all Puntland regions.

The Puntland government has mobilized more than 4,000 troops, drawn from various security agencies, and restructured both command structures and military personnel to enhance the forces’ capabilities and combat readiness. The preparations also include the establishment of specialized intelligence units, emergency responders, mobile medical units, and hospitals equipped to treat severe injuries. Essential telecommunications equipment, such as lightweight radios and telephones, has been procured, though the government lacks the resources for satellite and advanced visual communication systems due to technological and financial constraints.

Despite these challenges, the Puntland leadership has shown significant political will to combat ISIS and Al-Shabaab militants in the region. However, coordination efforts for the operation appear to fall short of optimal efficiency.

On the funding front, the Puntland government has allocated substantial resources to support the operation. Nevertheless, the financial burden of combating terror groups remains immense, as counterterrorism operations are both more expensive and devastating than conventional warfare.

Puntland security forces reportedly engaged in their first direct clashes with Islamic State fighters on December 31, 2024, in the Dharjaale area. The government displayed the bodies of 8 militants’ bodies, all foreign nationals, who were killed following a failed suicide and vehicle-borne attack targeting a military command centre. This attack occurred shortly after Puntland’s leadership announced that preparations for a large-scale operation against militants in the eastern highlands of Malmiskaad had been finalized. Notably, the assault took place before the planned security operations commenced.The attack also coincided with the tragic New Year’s terror attack in New Orleans, USA, which resulted in civilian casualties after an American citizen intentionally slammed truck into crowd.

Following the foiled attack, security forces advanced deep into the mountains and reportedly made significant progress in their offensive against IS-Somalia militants. During this operation, they thwarted an attempt by the militants to use kamikaze drones, successfully destroying all three combat drones. Sources close to the security forces’ commanders confirmed the destruction of five militant bases in the Calmiskaad mountainous region. Reports suggest that the forces are expanding their operations and achieving further progress. However, obtaining reliable information from the militants’ side remains challenging. Despite these successes, resource constraints, limited advanced technologies, and coordination challenges hinder operational efficiency. The Puntland government has appealed for international support to address these gaps.

Request for International Support

In an official letter, Puntland’s Ministry of Information appealed for international assistance, specifically requesting ammunition, aerial support, and advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The letter also criticized the Somali federal government, accusing it of irresponsibility and alleging infiltration by Al-Shabaab and ISIS elements.

Operation Strategies

The offensive strategy is critical for operational success. Soldiers must receive rigorous combat and purpose-oriented training, emphasizing discipline. Civilians, government property, and surrendered fighters must remain unharmed, with detained combatants handed over to appropriate authorities. Military courts should monitor and address any crimes against humanity, ensuring adherence to international war conduct principles. To garner international support, the government must ensure no children under 18 are sent to the frontlines. Military experts believe that there are three broad categories of military doctrines:

1. Offensive doctrines: Aimed at punishing adversaries.  
2. Defensive doctrines: Focused on denying adversaries’ advances.
3. Deterrent doctrines: Designed to disarm adversaries.

The essence of these doctrines can be summarized as: “You must know your limits and pick your battles carefully.” Puntland’s strategy integrates all above doctrines.

Morale of the Soldiers

Maintaining high morale among young soldiers is vital. Governments must prioritize the welfare of security personnel, addressing their material and emotional needs. Regular visits by government leaders to military bases can boost soldiers’ spirits and demonstrate commitment to their cause.

Discipline and Faith

Counter-terrorism operations depend heavily on discipline and a shared belief in the mission’s purpose. Leaders must unite troops under a common cause, such as religion, self-defence, or the protection of dignity. Adversaries, often foreign fighters, exploit a religious cause. While their beliefs may be flawed, addressing them requires a similar ideological conviction.

Holding Strategy

The holding strategy is as crucial as the offensive. Recovered areas must be stabilized with dedicated non-combatant forces, distinct from special offensive units. Police and other law enforcement agencies should establish long-term stability in liberated areas.

The government must also avoid overextending its resources, learning from the Somali government’s 2024 operations against AlShabaab, where insufficient holding forces led to setbacks.

Social Unity

Fostering social cohesion in liberated areas is essential. Building trust with local communities and addressing their needs can create lasting partnerships that support ongoing efforts against insurgents.

V. Challenges and Broader Implications

Regional and Global Impact

The Hillac operation will significantly influence regional security in the Horn of Africa. Success would strengthen stability, while failure could have dire regional and cross-border implications. Given IS-Somalia’s ties to international networks, neighbouring states must play a critical role. Total victory is imperative to prevent the re-emergence or infiltration of extremist groups.

Intelligence and Surveillance

Effective intelligence and surveillance are pivotal. Insurgency warfare, characterized by hit-and-run tactics, suicide attacks, and vehicular operations, requires a shift from conventional warfare to counter-terrorism strategies. Military experts advocate for meticulous intelligence gathering and analysis, emphasizing the importance of knowing the enemy without underestimating or exaggerating their capabilities.

Resource Challenges

Puntland Security Forces are prepared to win but require adequate funding. Regional and international partners, including the EU, UK, and U.S., must provide substantial financial aid to ensure both operational success and subsequent stabilization efforts.

Communication Channels

Secure communication systems are essential for protecting sensitive information. Advanced cybersecurity measures and satellite communication technologies are critical for effective command and control. Tactical military radios equipped with advanced technology are necessary for challenging terrains like Calmiskaat and Calmadow mountains.

Logistical Challenges

Logistics can make or break military operations. Proper troop deployment, supply chain management, and equipment maintenance are essential. While current efforts have mobilized some resources, regional and international collaboration is needed to meet operational goals.

Key Recommendations

Many analysis reports demonstrate that IS-Somalia is wealthy terrorist group. They generate most of their income from money extortion activities in Puntland and Somalia and also receive funds from members of wealth individual’s government officials and from various criminal enterprises. In order to have its capabilities degraded and they might ultimately be destroyed, the Puntland government should target and disrupt their resources, advantages and systems including the information, network, communication etc. their military equipment should be degraded, destroyed or dispossession. Additionally, ISIS should be tackled on the personnel level with an intensive targeted killing campaign against functional nodes in the ISIS network. To eradicate these radicalisations, it requires action outside of Puntland and wholly Somalia.

The following are few but important Recommendations:

1. Unified National Effort: The Somali government must commit to the fight against IS-Somalia by providing intelligence, financial, and military support. Both Puntland and the federal government of Somalia should leave behind political bickering and unite the fight against terror groups.
2. International Support: Regional governments and international counterterrorism alliances must offer military aid, including intelligence, surveillance, and airstrike capabilities.
3. Address Local Grievances: Puntland’s government should address the clan grievances and improve infrastructure and services in combat areas to gain local support. Building roads, water points, schools, and health facilities will foster collaboration and trust.
4. Humanitarian Coordination: Puntland government should form dedicated humanitarian coordination body to assist and coordinate providing aid assistance to those affected by the conflict. Addressing drought and humanitarian crises is essential for stability.
5. Ideological Warfare: Awareness campaigns led by Islamic scholars, elders, and intellectuals can counter extremist ideologies. Rehabilitation programmess should be established for militants willing to defect, offering them pathways for rehabilitation.
6. Modus operandi (MO): Comprehensive security standard policies should be formulated and Soldiers must undergo rigorous combat training tailored to specific objectives, with a strong emphasis on discipline. This approach will ensure both their safety and the safety of civilians.

Conclusion

The fight against IS-Somalia in Puntland represents a critical front in global counter-terrorism efforts. The Hillac Operation has achieved notable progress but faces significant challenges that require comprehensive strategies, regional collaboration, and international support. By addressing these challenges, Puntland can pave the way for lasting stability in the region and contribute to the broader goal of dismantling extremist networks worldwide.

Mohammed A Mohammud (Baldho), MPA & MA (IR)
Email: baldho@gmail.com