Somalia and the African Union condemned a terrorist attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu, where a car bomb exploded as he traveled to support military efforts against al-Shabab. The president was unharmed, but there were civilian casualties. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack, which officials vowed would not deter military operations. AU leadership emphasized continued cooperation to combat terrorism in the Horn of Africa.
On Tuesday, both Somalia and the African Union (AU) issued strong condemnations of a terrorist attack targeting President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu. The attack, which involved a car bomb explosion, occurred as the president was en route to Hirshabelle to bolster military operations against al-Shabab.
The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism reported that the explosive device detonated from a roadside building in the Hamar-Jajab district of the capital, damaging vehicles and nearby infrastructure. Fortunately, the president remained unharmed and continued his journey, though the attack resulted in several civilian casualties, including the death or injury of a journalist.
The al-Qaeda-affiliated group al-Shabab took responsibility for the assault, explicitly stating they aimed to target the presidential convoy. In response, the Somali government condemned the violent act, reaffirming its dedication to not allowing such attacks to hinder military initiatives against the group. Officials urged for national unity and external support to restore stability in the region.
AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf denounced the bombing as a “desperate attempt” by al-Shabab to destabilize Somalia’s leadership and security. He noted the increasing public support for the government’s counterterrorism efforts and reiterated the AU’s commitment to aiding Somalia in achieving stability.
Youssouf highlighted the necessity for sustained regional and international collaboration to combat terrorism and foster lasting peace throughout the Horn of Africa. The AU’s Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia vowed to provide continuous assistance in safeguarding civilians and ensuring national security.
The recent attack on Somalia’s President Mogadishu highlights ongoing threats posed by al-Shabab and the importance of national and international solidarity in countering terrorism. Somalia’s leadership continues to advocate for stability and security, with the AU reaffirming its support. Cooperation among regional and international actors remains essential for lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: themedialine.org
