Mogadishu — Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, has confirmed that the Federal Government is actively coordinating with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ethiopia in conducting airstrikes against Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants.

Speaking to BBC Somali, Minister Nur emphasized that all foreign military operations in Somalia are conducted under formal security agreements. “Every strike is authorized through verified intelligence, and a Somali officer must approve the action. There are no unauthorized airstrikes occurring in Somalia,” he stated.

The operations are part of a broader counterterrorism effort, bolstered by Somalia’s recent security pact with Ethiopia under the Ankara agreement, facilitated by Turkey. Minister Nur described airstrikes as one of the most effective contributions from Ethiopia.

The government’s current offensive began with stringent blockades aimed at cutting off Al-Shabaab’s supply lines, particularly in the Shabelle region. “The blockade has disrupted Al-Shabaab’s logistics, forcing them to open new fronts,” Nur explained. Despite militant attacks in several areas, the minister confirmed that Somali forces have regained key positions and inflicted heavy losses, including the destruction of 18 militant vehicles and the deaths of approximately 400 fighters.

In Puntland, UAE-led airstrikes have targeted ISIS militants in the Al Miskaad Mountains. Nur reiterated that these operations fall under Somalia’s official security framework, ensuring no unauthorized actions.

The minister addressed concerns about potential civilian casualties, asserting that 99% of airstrikes have avoided harming non-combatants due to stringent targeting policies and community awareness campaigns. He also outlined a process for investigating and compensating any civilian harm.

Regarding U.S. assistance, Nur highlighted that Somalia is gradually taking over logistical support for the elite Danab forces, particularly concerning salaries and supplies, while the U.S. continues to provide critical operational support.

“Our fight against terrorism is a national effort backed by clear agreements with international partners,” Nur concluded.