Somalia Declares "Total War" on al-Shabab

The Somali National Army has launched a major new offensive against the militant group al-Shabab. Military officials are calling the campaign a "total war." The operation is happening in central Somalia. Government forces are targeting al-Shabab strongholds in the Hiiraan and Galgaduud regions. A government spokesperson stated the goal is to remove the militants from areas they control. The al-Qaeda-linked group has fought the Somali government for over 15 years. This new push follows increased al-Shabab attacks. Recent incidents include a deadly assault on a hotel in the capital, Mogadishu. The term "total war" means the military is using all available resources. The campaign involves ground troops and air support. It aims to defeat the militants completely. The United States and other international partners support the Somali government. They provide training and sometimes conduct air strikes against al-Shabab leaders. The success of this large-scale operation remains uncertain. Previous offensives have had mixed results against the resilient militant group.