Islamic State Attacks Puntland Military Base Amid Intensified Conflict
Executive Summary
Islamic State (IS) militants launched a massive assault on a Puntland Defense Force (PDF) military base in the Bari mountains, resulting in nearly 100 deaths and over 60 injuries. This is the deadliest attack since Puntland’s security forces initiated an offensive against IS strongholds in December 2024. The battle, which took place at Togga Jacel in the Cal Miskaad mountains, involved suicide bombers, vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), and gunfights lasting several hours. Puntland forces successfully repelled the attack, killing at least 70 IS fighters, including several foreign militants.
Analysis
The attack highlights the growing operational capability of IS in Somalia, despite sustained counterterrorism efforts by Puntland security forces, U.S. airstrikes, and Somali federal troops. The following key factors emerge from this latest development:
IS Escalation in Puntland – The use of coordinated suicide attacks, IED ambushes, and guerrilla-style warfare suggests IS has adapted its tactics in response to Puntland’s offensive. The militant group has shown resilience despite recent territorial losses.
Heavy Casualties on Both Sides – IS claimed to have inflicted severe losses on PDF, with 130 soldiers killed and over 200 wounded in the past week. Puntland officials confirmed at least 27 of their soldiers died, though they estimate IS suffered far greater losses.
Foreign Fighter Involvement – Intelligence suggests IS fighters from North Africa, the Middle East, and East Africa were present in the battle, emphasizing the transnational nature of the group’s operations in Somalia.
U.S. and International Response – The U.S. has ramped up its counterterrorism efforts, including a recent airstrike that killed key IS planner Ahmed Maeleninine, an Omani-born recruiter and operations leader. AFRICOM remains committed to supporting Puntland and Somali forces against IS.
Strategic Implications – The battle underscores Puntland’s role as a frontline region in the fight against IS in Somalia. The group’s ability to strike behind enemy lines with IEDs and engage in prolonged battles suggests Puntland’s offensive may not have weakened IS as much as initially believed.
IS continues to exploit Puntland’s rugged terrain to regroup and sustain its insurgency. Despite counterterrorism operations, the group remains a serious threat to security in the Horn of Africa, with potential implications for regional stability and international shipping routes.
