Ethiopia and Somalia's Airstrikes Signal Renewed Focus on Al-Shabaab Threat

A New Chapter in the Fight Against Al-Shabaab

On March 7, 2025, Ethiopian military forces conducted precision airstrikes targeting Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia's volatile Middle Shabelle region. This offensive signals a renewed commitment by both Ethiopia and Somalia to dismantle the network of the Al-Qaeda-linked insurgents that have plagued Somalia since 2007. According to Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, these strikes were conducted under the direct supervision and coordination of the Somali government, underscoring a united front in the face of persistent instability.

The Ankara Agreement: A Framework for Joint Operations

The strikes were made possible through the Ankara Agreement, a crucial pact that facilitates military cooperation and intelligence sharing between Ethiopia and Somalia. This agreement, mediated by Turkey, helps shape their collaborative efforts against extremist groups, allowing for effective cross-border operations. Such partnerships are pivotal in addressing the ongoing security challenges in the region and highlight the importance of coordinated responses in conflict zones.

The Impact of Regional Military Alliances

With Ethiopia's long-standing involvement in Somalia since its initial interventions in 2006, this recent airstrike marks a significant escalation in their military tactics against Al-Shabaab. Despite concerns regarding civilian casualties, which Addis Ababa has consistently denied, the collaborative military efforts have received both praise and criticism. Analysts, including security expert Abdiwahab Sheikh, argue that without sustained coordination and attention to local issues, these alliances risk alienating communities integral to any successful counterinsurgency strategy.

Local Perspectives on the Airstrikes

Residents in the region, such as shopkeeper Halima Yusuf, reported intense explosions during the airstrike, describing the operations as more precise than previous engagements. This differentiation of tactics could indicate a shift in Ethiopia's military approach, potentially enhancing its effectiveness in the fight against Al-Shabaab. Still, as operations escalate, local sentiments play a vital role in determining the public's support for these military actions.

Looking Ahead: The Role of AUSSOM

As Somalia prepares to fully deploy the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM), the spotlight is on how the integration of Ethiopian forces will influence the strategic landscape. AUSSOM aims to secure critical population centers, thereby allowing Somali forces to take greater control of their national defense. Backed by international donors and the United Nations, this mission is expected to bolster the effectiveness of joint operations against Al-Shabaab.

The alliance between Somalia and Ethiopia exemplifies a growing trend within Africa to combat terrorism through regional collaborations. As such dynamics evolve, stakeholders in global trade and governance must closely monitor these developments to understand their implications on the wider African economic landscape.