Amid criticism, Somalia’s sleepy cabinet acknowledges Puntland’s gains in ISIS war

MOGADISHU, Somalia - For the first time since the war against ISIS militants kicked off in Puntland, Somalia’s shaky cabinet acknowledged the gains made by the northeastern Federal State forces, following the liberation of various strategic frontlines within the Bari region.

Despite Puntland being one of the federal states, the central government's input in the ongoing operations is negligible, with the only support being a text message on social media over the weekend by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, just after Donald Trump confirmed airstrikes in Puntland.

Frankly, the central government has neither given logistical, military, or moral support to the local troops, signaling a strained relationship between Garowe and Mogadishu. On the contrary, Mogadishu has only tried to unreasonably take credit for the gains.

Presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama, the cabinet commended Puntland’s commitment to the eradication of violent extremists while recognizing victories in the Cal-Miskaad mountains in the Bari region, which were documented by state officials.

"The Cabinet, in its weekly meeting on Thursday, commended Somalia’s Puntland State Dervish forces for their decisive victories against ISIS militants in the Al-Khalima mountains of the Bari region," read the statement published by the state media.

"The Council, chaired by Deputy PM Salah Jama, reaffirmed the federal government’s support for Puntland’s efforts in combating terrorism and ensuring national security."

By Wednesday, the month-long crackdown had claimed the lives of over 100 militants, with a whopping 57 dying between Tuesday and yesterday. The US Africa Command airstrikes on Saturday which targeted ISIS global leader Abdulkadir Mumin left another 46 people dead.

Puntland forces have also suffered casualties in the line of duty, but the figure is yet to be confirmed by military commanders in charge of Operation Lightning. However, the numbers are low given the level of preparedness by the team before launching the assault.

"I congratulate Puntland’s security forces and government for their bravery and commitment," said Mohamed Abdirahman Mohamad, Puntland’s regional Minister for Climate and Environment. "This fight to rid Somalia of terrorism is not for boasting, nor for begging—it is a duty."

Most of the dead terrorists are foreign fighters who have expanded the group’s operation capabilities before they were annihilated. Puntland is getting assistance from the United States and the United Arab Emirates, with federal officials only making statements from Mogadishu without any material help for Puntland.

GAROWE ONLINE