Somali National Army Commander Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud meets U.S.

The Commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud, held a high-level meeting with the United States Defense Attaché to Somalia, Col. Wills, to discuss strengthening joint efforts in the fight against terrorism and enhancing military cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting, which took place at the SNA General Command headquarters in Mogadishu, focused on intensifying operations against Al-Shabaab and other extremist elements threatening Somalia’s security and stability. Both sides reviewed ongoing security operations and explored ways to further improve coordination, intelligence-sharing, and operational support.

Gen. Ibrahim emphasized the critical importance of sustained international partnerships in bolstering the capabilities of the Somali National Army. He noted that the support provided by the United States has played a significant role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Somali forces, particularly in counterterrorism operations across various regions of the country.

“The partnership between Somalia and the United States is vital in our ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist threats and restore peace and stability throughout the nation,” the SNA Commander stated, reaffirming the army’s commitment to intensifying operations aimed at dismantling extremist networks.

Col. Wills reiterated the United States’ continued commitment to supporting Somalia’s security sector development, including training, advisory assistance, and logistical support. He commended the Somali National Army for its resilience and progress in recent operations against militant groups.

The meeting comes amid sustained military offensives by Somali forces, backed by international partners, targeting Al-Shabaab strongholds in several regions. Officials say such engagements reflect the deepening defense cooperation between Mogadishu and Washington and underscore a shared objective of defeating terrorism and strengthening long-term security institutions in Somalia.

The Federal Government of Somalia has repeatedly emphasized that building a capable and self-reliant national army remains a top priority, as the country advances its broader agenda of stabilization, reconstruction, and state-building.