A new report by the New America Foundation reveals that between 109 and 174 individuals have been killed in 34 U.S. airstrikes in Somalia so far in 2025.
The exact number of civilian casualties remains unclear, reigniting concerns about transparency and accountability in U.S. military operations in Africa.
The air campaign, led by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), marks a sharp escalation compared to previous years.
General Michael Langley, AFRICOM’s commander, confirmed that over 25 airstrikes have been conducted in 2025—twice the number carried out in 2024.
“These operations are vital to degrading and disrupting extremist networks like al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia,” Langley stated.
“They remain a persistent threat to U.S. interests and regional stability.”
AFRICOM has announced 27 strikes so far this year, including high-profile targets such as Mohamed Mire, a senior al-Shabaab figure killed in a December 2024 strike, and Ahmed Maeleninine, an ISIS-Somalia leader eliminated in February.
The command emphasizes that civilian safety remains a top priority and insists no civilians were harmed in many of these operations.
However, human rights organizations have pushed back, calling for independent investigations into alleged civilian casualties.
They argue the lack of precise data and growing operational autonomy under the Trump administration raises serious questions about oversight.
The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Niger in 2024 has also hindered monitoring capabilities across West Africa, where extremist violence is rising in countries like Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
Despite regional shifts, Somalia remains a primary focus for AFRICOM. With extremist groups aiming to expand influence and gain coastal access for smuggling, U.S. officials say their campaign is far from over.
