Sunday August 10, 2025
Garowe (HOL) – The Puntland administration has deployed fresh troops to the Calmiskaad Mountains to launch what officials describe as the final phase of an operation against the Islamic State group.
The offensive had slowed in recent weeks after government forces withdrew from the Miraale Valley, allowing ISIS militants to plant mines that have disrupted supply routes.
According to security sources, the group is now concentrated in two remote, hard-to-access areas: the Habley Mountains and the Baallade Valley. Both locations lack roads for combat vehicles, forcing troops to rely on camels or aircraft for food and water supplies.
Analysts estimate more than 100 fighters, including senior leaders, remain entrenched in the mountains. Security officials say the operation to eliminate ISIS could continue until September.