The United Nations (UN) Security Council has said the number of Islamic State militants in Somalia has seen a sharp decline following a joint military operation carried by Puntland and United States forces.
The council’s new report seen by APA on Thursday estimates that the number of Islamic State fighters in the Horn African country is now between 150 to 250 fighters, including its leader Abdulqadir Mumin and his deputy Abdrihaman Faahiye.
In 2025, then US-Africa command Chief General Michael Langley said the group had between 1200 to 1500 fighters.
According to the report, Puntland forces conducted sustained operations against Islamic State in Cal-Miskaad mountain range in the Bari region, targeting the group’s bases, supply routes and fighters.
The report also indicates that more than 900 Islamic state fighters have been killed in military operations since early 2025.
The report said repeated drone strikes carried out by the United States against Islamic State positions has significantly killed hundreds of fighters and reduced the group’s territory and operational space.
Despite the loses, the reported warned that Islamic state in Somalia remains a security threat with its leadership structure still intact and fighters continuing to operate in remote mountainous areas.
MG/as/APA