Puntland President Deni thanks the US for its support in the fight against ISIS. However, the reason for thanking the UAE remains unclear. Puntland State has reported “notable successes” in its operation against ISIS hideouts in the Al-Miskat mountains of the Bari region. The northeastern federal state expressed its appreciation for the critical airstrike assistance from both the US and the UAE in targeting ISIS positions. Additionally, Puntland acknowledged the support from Ethiopia and Kenya during the early stages of the operation. With key ISIS figures eliminated, Puntland, operating without the Somali government’s backing, is now progressing into the second phase of its counterterrorism efforts aimed at eradicating both ISIS and Al-Shabaab from the entire Bari region.