Hospitals in various parts of Somalia are facing significant challenges as the number of wounded individuals continues to rise due to an escalation in violence. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported on Friday that the rise in armed conflict has notably increased since the start of the year, raising concerns over a potential resurgence of jihadist activities despite recent territorial gains made by the Somali government and its international allies.
The situation has been compounded by several violent incidents, including a roadside bomb that narrowly missed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy last month. Such attacks have intensified fears about the ability of security forces and peacekeeping efforts to maintain stability in the region. For over 15 years, the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group Al-Shabaab had faced pressure from Somali federal troops and African Union-led forces, resulting in a defensive posture from the militant group in 2022 and 2023.
The ICRC highlighted a worrying trend in medical facilities, particularly in regions near combat zones, where there has been a marked increase in the number of patients treated for weapon-related injuries. For instance, the Madina Hospital in Mogadishu, which receives support from the ICRC, has reported a 26-percent increase in the number of wounded patients admitted compared to the previous three months, totaling 203 cases.
Areas such as the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions in southern Somalia have experienced a significant uptick in hostilities since March, resulting in not only casualties but also widespread displacement of civilians. According to the ICRC, the ongoing military operations in the Bari region of Puntland and clashes in the Sool and Sanaag regions in the north are further contributing to the worsening humanitarian crisis.
The escalation of violence has caused over 100,000 individuals to flee their homes, seeking safety from the conflict. Earlier in the month, Al-Shabaab has resumed aggressive tactics, including launching multiple rocket attacks near the airport in Mogadishu, which had a direct impact on international flight operations. This action, along with the group’s recent incursions into key areas in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions, illustrates their continued ability to disrupt security efforts in the capital.
The recent bomb attack targeting the president highlights the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab, marking a significant challenge for both the Somali government and its partners in maintaining peace and security in the country.
