US military aircraft began reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering operations on 3 September over two areas in the Cal Miskaad Mountains in Somalia’s Bari region, according to Drop Site, which cited Puntland security officials.
The officials said fighters, believed to be predominantly foreign nationals and members of Islamic State forces that were defeated during Puntland’s Hillaac offensive, are thought to be hiding in the Miraale and Baalade valleys. Puntland security forces are continuing search operations in the area.
During the reconnaissance mission, US drones reportedly spotted suspected Islamic State members in the Baalade Valley. The fighters were said to be travelling on donkeys. An airstrike was subsequently reported in the area at about 20:30 local time on 3 September 2026.
The report also said that further US drone operations took place on the same day in north-western Somalia, particularly in the Cal Madow Mountains in the Sanaag region. The area is known to host al-Shabab fighters.
There has been no official statement from the US government confirming the reported strikes.
Puntland security officials said they expect US aerial operations and airstrikes in Somalia to increase in the near future. The United States has recently stepped up air operations against armed groups in Somalia, while also expanding security cooperation with Puntland.
