Key Takeaways:

• The U.S. military conducted coordinated airstrikes in Somalia against Islamic State operatives, the first in President Trump's second term.
• According to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, multiple ISIS militants were killed with no civilian casualties.
• Trump stated the airstrikes targeted a senior ISIS attack planner, reinforcing the commitment to combating terrorism in collaboration with Somalia.
• The strikes aimed to disrupt the operational capabilities of ISIS in Somalia, where the group's influence persists despite ongoing military efforts.
• This operation highlights the U.S.’s sustained military engagement in Africa, particularly in response to ISIS's growing activities.

In a decisive military action, the U.S. military has carried out airstrikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) operatives in Somalia. Announced by AP News and several sources, this operation marks the first airstrike ordered by President Donald Trump following his re-election.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that the airstrikes, executed by U.S. Africa Command, were coordinated with the government of Somalia. In his post on social media, Trump emphasized the precision of the strikes, asserting they successfully targeted a senior ISIS attack planner along with other operatives. "The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians," Trump stated in the announcement, which can be read on The Guardian.

According to initial assessments by the Pentagon, the operation resulted in the deaths of multiple ISIS operatives, with no civilian casualties reported, a claim backed by BBC. Trump underscored that the United States remains committed to its allies in the face of terrorist threats, boasting a successful operational strategy against ISIS over the years.

The Somali presidency expressed appreciation for the U.S.'s ongoing partnership in fighting terrorism, reinforcing a commitment that has been crucial for regional stability, as noted in a statement by Reuters.

Military officials have previously warned of ISIS's attempts to bolster its capabilities in Somalia, where cells remain active, particularly in the northern regions such as the Golis Mountains. The organization, which emerged as a faction from Al Shabab, has been involved in multiple attacks, funding its operations through extortion and local taxes. Despite facing continuous military pressure, ISIS is reported to be growing in strength, necessitating such military interventions.

The airstrike follows broader military efforts by the U.S. to counteract jihadist threats in Africa, as outlined by Los Angeles Times. As the Pentagon adjusts its strategies amid challenges posed by varied terrorist groups, these operations reflect a critical stance towards maintaining security and countering extremist influences.

This operation follows a previous U.S. airstrike targeting ISIS that took place in May, reinforcing a continuous military presence in the region. While some have questioned the legality and authority of such strikes without congressional approval, support from military officials suggests a united front against imminent threat levels.

For further details on this operation and its implications, read more from Newsweek.