US Deploys Additional Forces to Somalia as Part of Counterterrorism Efforts
President Joe Biden ordered a redeployment of hundreds of American troops to Somalia on Monday to bolster the campaign against the Islamist group al-Shabab, which has operated in parts of the country since the early 2000s and has links to larger networks linked to al-Qaeda. A high-ranking U.S. official confirmed that the mission aims to bolster regional security and support the Somali government in counterterrorism operations.
On the same decision, Biden authorized the Pentagon to pursue airstrikes against a group of leading al-Shabab suspects. The authorization reflects a shift toward greater offensive capacity to target senior figures and operational infrastructure of the group, according to an official source familiar with the plan.
A White House official stated that the number of troops slated for deployment in Somalia would be “less than 500”, a figure falling short of the roughly 750 U.S. troops withdrawn from Somalia in 2021 under the prior administration. The official emphasized that the United States does not intend to maintain a permanent troop presence in Somalia but will instead periodically adjust its footprint to support ongoing efforts.
Officials stressed that the current mission is to sustain a credible deterrent, train Somali security forces, and enable intelligence-to-operation workflows while allowing for offensive actions if conditions warrant. The aim is to reduce risks to American personnel and improve the effectiveness of the broader counterterrorism mission in the region.
Previously, U.S. forces that left Somalia over a year ago conducted short visits to neighboring countries to maintain ties with regional partners and continue training programs for Somali forces as part of a broader effort led by regional security bodies. The Pentagon assessed that the earlier approach could be enhanced by a more centralized authority to implement bombing campaigns when necessary and by initiating a cautious redeployment plan.
Officials explained that the decision to reinstate a visible U.S. presence in Somalia was driven by operational realities. Ongoing deployments involved weeks or months of travel for support logistics, which often delayed critical activities and exposed personnel and materials to heightened risk. The new plan seeks to streamline logistics while preserving flexibility for future steps as the security environment evolves.
During this period, al-Shabab expanded its reach and resources, sharpening its capability and extracting more from the conflict economy. Observers note that the group has grown more formidable, with increased funding and personnel, complicating regional stability efforts. The group remains a priority for U.S. and international counterterrorism initiatives as it continues attacks against civilian and military targets in Somalia and beyond.
U.S. officials cited prior limitations on action, noting that earlier guidance constrained bombing to scenarios of immediate defense of U.S. or partner forces. The current strategy signals a shift toward a more proactive posture, aligning with evolving threat assessments and the needs of partners on the ground. The policy move is framed as a measured response to a deteriorating security picture in parts of central and southern Somalia.
The White House described the troop deployment as a phased effort, with the intention of sustaining the core mission while preserving the ability to adjust based on intelligence and risk assessments. American forces assigned to Somalia will continue to assist local troops, translate intelligence into operational plans, and contribute to enhanced defensive capabilities. In some instances, personnel may be involved in offensive missions aimed at degrading the leadership and operational capacity of al-Shabab.
Somalia has endured decades of conflict since the overthrow of a central regime in 1991, a upheaval that left the country fragmented and vulnerable to rival factions and armed groups. The security landscape has been characterized by periodic government advances and persistent insurgent activity, shaping the country’s status as a fragile state and a focal point for regional security efforts.
Al-Shabab joined the global al-Qaeda network in 2012 and has repeatedly conducted high-profile attacks in Mogadishu and other urban centers with the aim of toppling the government and imposing a highly conservative interpretation of Islam. The group’s attacks have drawn international concern and prompted ongoing counterterrorism cooperation among U.S. and allied partners.