Somali military units, supported by Ugandan peacekeepers under AMISOM and allied forces, initiated Operation Rolling Thunder in Lower Shabelle with the objective of destroying Al-Shabaab positions and protecting important civilian and farming regions. The Somali National Army, collaborating with Ugandan elements of the African Union peacekeeping mission and additional international supporters, commenced a fresh campaign in southern Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region targeting Al-Shabaab combatants. According to a Sunday announcement from Somalia’s Defense Ministry, the designated Operation Rolling Thunder aims to eliminate critical militant bases, hinder pathways utilized for assaults, and safeguard populated regions alongside essential farming zones. “Operation Rolling Thunder will persist until the Al-Shabaab terrorist organization is completely neutralized as a danger to peace advancement and nation development in Somalia,” stated the ministry. It also highlighted the dedication of Somali forces, mentioning that military personnel are executing this operation throughout the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Al-Shabaab has maintained control over portions of southern Somalia for many years, employing the territory as a platform for offensives and illicit commerce. Somalia has augmented its countermeasures against the organization in recent months, resulting in decreased militia membership and combat effectiveness. Earlier in the month, Somali officials reported the demise of a senior Al-Shabaab leader, Ahmed Dhubad Xidig, also identified as Sheikh Adan Dheere, who managed the organization’s financial affairs in the Banadir area. The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) reported that Ahmed was eliminated during a precision operation conducted by the Gaashan Force in Daniga Baalow, Lower Shabelle, on January 27. NISA stated that the contingent attacked the hideout where the commander was concealed, and he was shot after opposing security personnel during the assault. “The individual, who affiliated with Al-Shabaab in 2008 and has participated extensively in racketeering and appropriation of public assets, previously functioned as the Khawarij’s collection agent in Mudug, Galgaduud, Hiran and Lower Shabelle territories,” NISA stated. “NISA operatives, who have pursued Leader Ahmed Dhubad Xidig for an extended period, have ultimately succeeded in terminating his existence.” Ahmed’s demise occurred shortly after security forces removed the organization’s principal financial administrator, Abdullahi Hassan Abdi Osoble, through a distinct operation.