MWE Correspondent
Fighting broke out on a strategic island off southern Somalia after fighters from Al-Shabaab launched a coordinated assault, triggering clashes with government-aligned forces and renewing concerns over security in the volatile region.
The attack targeted Kuday Island, located along Somalia’s southern coastline, an area long regarded as militarily significant because of its proximity to key sea routes and coastal supply lines. Authorities in the semi-autonomous Jubaland region said their forces successfully repelled the assault after several hours of fighting, preventing the militants from gaining full control of the island.
Despite the official account, the armed group issued a statement claiming its fighters overran a military base on the island. According to the group, the installation had previously served as one of its operational centers during earlier phases of the conflict. Such claims, however, could not be independently verified due to restricted access to the area and the ongoing nature of security operations.
Kuday Island has changed hands multiple times over the years and has remained a flashpoint in the long-running conflict in Somalia. Analysts say the island’s strategic location makes it valuable for both defensive and offensive operations, particularly for monitoring maritime movement along the southern coast.
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Officials in Jubaland said additional security units were deployed following the clashes to stabilize the situation and prevent further incursions. They described the area as largely under control but acknowledged that operations were still underway to assess damage and potential casualties. No official figures were immediately released.
The group known as Al-Shabaab has been fighting the Somali government for more than a decade and continues to carry out attacks despite sustained military pressure. While government forces have reclaimed territory in recent years, the group has maintained its ability to stage surprise assaults on military positions and strategic locations.
Security experts say the latest incident highlights the fragile nature of recent gains made by Somali forces and their allies. Coastal regions and islands remain particularly sensitive due to their potential use as supply routes or staging grounds for future attacks.
The incident also underscores broader challenges facing Somalia’s stabilization efforts, especially in regions like Jubaland, which has historically been a stronghold for militant activity. Analysts warn that while territorial control is important, long-term stability will depend on sustained security operations, local governance, and economic recovery.
