Militants from “Al-Shabaab” attacked the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne, Somalia, during a government meeting, resulting in a reported 4 to 10 fatalities. The group utilized a car bomb before engaging in gunfire with Somali security forces. Claims of responsibility were issued by “Al-Shabaab,” citing higher death tolls. This incident underscores the escalating threat posed by the group amidst ongoing military operations in the region.
On Tuesday, militants associated with “Al-Shabaab” attacked the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne, Somalia, where government officials and tribal leaders convened for a counter-terrorism meeting. Initial reports indicate a grim casualty count, with estimates ranging from four to ten fatalities, as stated by various sources including Al Jazeera and local witnesses.
The assault commenced with a car bomb explosion, which was soon followed by a direct assault where militants opened fire on the hotel. Intense conflict erupted between the attackers and Somali security forces, persisting until the following morning. Eyewitness accounts detail a severe disturbance, with one vendor recalling, “a loud explosion followed by gunfire. Then there was another explosion,” resulting in significant damage to the hotel structure.
“Al-Shabaab” later claimed responsibility for the attack and reported a higher casualty figure, asserting that over ten individuals were killed. However, local officials provide differing accounts, with at least four confirmed dead according to Dahir Amin Jesow, a federal member of parliament. The Associated Press corroborated this by identifying six victims, among them prominent traditional elders.
Emerging in the chaos of Somalia’s civil war in 1991, “Al-Shabaab” has forged connections with “Al-Qaeda” and has been engaged in hostilities against the Somali government for over sixteen years. This militant group routinely exploits opportunities to attack government officials and military targets, aiming to dismantle the current regime and enforce its rigid interpretation of Islamic law. Notably, “Al-Shabaab” continues to exert control in various rural regions of Somalia, maintaining a significant threat despite ongoing military efforts by Somali and African Union forces to eliminate their influence, specifically from the capital, Mogadishu.
In summary, the recent attack on the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne by “Al-Shabaab” underscores the persistent threat this militant group poses in Somalia. With varying casualty reports, the incident reveals the complexity of security challenges in the region, exacerbated by the group’s longstanding efforts to undermine the Somali government and instill its doctrine. Continuous counter-terrorism efforts remain crucial as Somalia grapples with the ramifications of such violent acts.
Original Source: unn.ua
