Al-Shabab overruns key Somali town of Mahaas in major assault

In central Somalia, al-Shabab rebels have taken control of the town of Mahaas, marking a significant shift in the ongoing conflict between the extremist group and the federal government. The assault occurred early Sunday morning, amidst heavy gunfire and multiple suicide blasts that rattled the town. Witnesses reported that government troops and allied militias, collectively known as Ma’awisley, withdrew from the town just before al-Shabab fighters launched their offensive. Mahaas has been a crucial government outpost located 350 kilometers north of Mogadishu, the federal capital, and has served as a forward operating base in efforts to combat al-Shabab's influence in the region. The situation remains chaotic as casualties are still being assessed, with local officials indicating that a provincial representative from the National Intelligence and Security Agency was among those killed. The capture of Mahaas underscores al-Shabab's persistent resilience despite facing pressure from Somali security forces and a renewed offensive aimed at dismantling the group's power. The U.S. military has consistently targeted al-Shabab with airstrikes, and the presence of African Union troops has bolstered government efforts throughout Somalia. Nonetheless, al-Shabab has managed to regain ground, highlighting potential challenges in coordination among Somali security forces and raising doubts regarding the sustainability of recent military advancements. The loss of Mahaas, which had remained under government control for over a decade, could further complicate the fight against the militants, as it represents a key strategic location for launching operations against al-Shabab strongholds in the Hiraan and Galgaduud regions.