Al-Miskaad, Puntland – Puntland presidential state minister Abdifatah Mohamed Abdinur stated that authorities have established a severe blockade around the remaining Islamic State militants concealed in the rugged Al-Miskaad mountains, designed to sever all supplies sustaining the group.
Abdinur explained that the zones believed to shelter ISIS fighters are fully encircled under a plan to restrict access to food, fuel, and other vital resources.
“There is enormous pressure on the government and its forces. One of the key measures is ensuring the militants are blockaded from all sides so nothing can reach them. They are surrounded,” he said.
He conceded that a small group of ISIS fighters continues operating secretly in the lower sections of the Al-Miskaad range but voiced assurance that military efforts would wrap up shortly.
The minister highlighted how Puntland’s challenging terrain has hindered the operation, with mountains barring heavy vehicles.
“You’ve seen forces moving on donkeys, camels, or even on foot because the area is extremely difficult to reach,” Abdinur said.
He further noted that Puntland troops have resorted to specialized mountain warfare methods to completely expel the group from their last strongholds.
His comments follow the day Puntland anticipated announcing the conclusion of Operation Hilaac, a year-long effort against ISIS militants. The declaration was postponed owing to President Said Abdullahi Deni’s overseas journey.
Although Puntland leaders report advances, ISIS militants stay active in the Baallade valley, roughly 20 kilometers west of Bosaso. Locals and experts caution the government against claiming triumph too soon as fighters retain positions in Baallade and surrounding zones.