Horn of Africa: Security

In February 2026, U.S. forces conducted military operations in Somalia targeting terrorist groups. Airstrikes carried out by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) resulted in the deaths of eight al-Shabaab fighters. The operations also targeted leaders of the Islamic State's branch in Somalia, ISIS-Somalia, who were reportedly hiding in cave complexes.

AFRICOM officials have cited rising threats from ISIS to the U.S. homeland as a key reason for the increased military action in the region. These strikes represent a continuation of counterterrorism efforts focused on militant organizations operating within Somalia.