The United States initiated its first drone strike of 2024 in Somalia on January 21, targeting the al-Shabaab terrorist group. This operation, confirmed by both U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Somali officials, occurred in the Lower Juba region, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Kismayo. The strike resulted in the deaths of three al-Shabaab members, with no civilian casualties reported. This action was conducted at the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, and it is described as a collective self-defense airstrike.

This recent strike is part of a broader U.S. military engagement in Somalia, which has been increasingly active since President Biden’s tenure began in January 2021. Throughout 2023, AFRICOM conducted at least 18 airstrikes in Somalia, along with a special operations raid in February, marking a significant year for U.S. military operations in the region. The total number of U.S. strikes in Somalia since 2007 is at least 262, reportedly eliminating over 1,200 al-Shabaab militants.