Kismayo International Airport hosts a U.S. military presence alongside Somali government troops and African forces.
Somali national army soldiers stand in formation during a logistics course graduation ceremony. Soldiers from Somali's advanced infantry DANAB battalion spent 14 weeks training with the U.S. 10th Mountain division on the importance of logistical operation as well as the operation and maintenance of heavy equipment. (Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Evan Parker. Released) Evan Parker/Defense Media Activity
Mogadishu (Somali Report) - The United States has announced a reward of up to one million dollars for information leading to the identification or capture of those responsible for an attack on U.S. military personnel and property at Kismayo International Airport in southern Somalia.
The offer was made through the U.S. government’s Rewards for Justice programme, which seeks public assistance in counterterrorism investigations worldwide.
The attack, carried out by the Islamist militant group al-Shabaab, involved rockets and mortar shells fired towards the airport, where U.S. and African partner forces are stationed. No casualties were reported.
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Kismayo International Airport hosts a U.S. military presence alongside Somali government troops and African forces. The United States operates a base near the airport, providing training and support to Somali federal forces and Jubbaland regional troops, including the elite Danab special forces, as part of its counterterrorism mission.
Al-Shabaab has frequently targeted military bases and international forces in Somalia, often using indirect fire such as mortars and rockets. Analysts say such attacks are intended to test security measures and signal the group’s continued operational capability despite sustained pressure from Somali forces and their allies.
U.S. armed forces in Somalia say they continue to advise, train and assist Somali and regional partners in operations aimed at weakening al-Shabaab and preventing attacks on civilians and international interests.
The reward offer underscores Washington’s intent to deter attacks on its personnel and facilities in Somalia, while reinforcing its commitment to holding those responsible for such assaults accountable.
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