Somalia’s Puntland state has been waging an ongoing battle against the Islamic State (ISIS) in the rugged mountain ranges of the Bari region. This conflict, largely overlooked by the international media, is part of the broader struggle against extremism in the Horn of Africa. While Al-Shabaab remains the dominant terrorist group in Somalia, ISIS has managed to establish a foothold in Puntland’s remote and treacherous terrain. The regional government, with limited resources and support, continues to push back against this growing threat.

The Rise of ISIS in Puntland
ISIS first emerged in Somalia in 2015 when a faction of Al-Shabaab defected and pledged allegiance to the Islamic State’s leadership in the Middle East. Led by Abdulqadir Mumin, a former Al-Shabaab ideologue, the group initially consisted of a few dozen fighters. Over the years, it has expanded its influence, using the mountains of Puntland as a strategic hideout for recruitment, training, and launching attacks.
Unlike Al-Shabaab, which operates across southern and central Somalia, ISIS-Somalia has focused on establishing itself in the northern regions, particularly in Puntland. The group has carried out assassinations, extortion, and sporadic attacks on government and security forces. Its ability to operate in the harsh and mountainous landscape has made it difficult for Puntland’s security forces to eliminate them entirely.
Puntland’s Military Response
The Puntland Security Forces (PSF), with support from the Somali federal government and sporadic assistance from international partners, have been conducting counterterrorism operations to root out ISIS fighters from their mountain hideouts. These operations have included airstrikes, ground offensives, and intelligence-led raids.
However, Puntland faces significant challenges. Unlike Al-Shabaab, which has engaged in direct battles, ISIS operates in small, mobile units that can quickly disperse and regroup. Their presence in the mountains allows them to evade large-scale offensives, making it difficult for the PSF to deliver a decisive blow. Additionally, Puntland’s security forces are often underfunded and underequipped compared to the well-armed terrorist cells they are fighting.
The Role of the United States and International Allies
The United States has provided limited support to Puntland in the form of intelligence sharing and occasional airstrikes targeting high-profile ISIS leaders. The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) has conducted drone strikes in the region, successfully eliminating key ISIS operatives. However, without consistent international support, Puntland’s ability to sustain long-term operations against ISIS remains a challenge.
Other international actors, including the African Union and regional governments, have primarily focused on the fight against Al-Shabaab, leaving Puntland to deal with ISIS on its own. This lack of global attention has allowed ISIS to maintain a degree of resilience in the region.
The Future of the Conflict
While Puntland’s forces have made progress in pushing back ISIS, the group remains a persistent threat. The mountainous terrain continues to provide a natural fortress for the militants, and the lack of sustained international attention means that Puntland is fighting an uphill battle.
For Puntland to decisively defeat ISIS, it needs greater financial, logistical, and military support from both the Somali federal government and international partners. Without such assistance, the conflict will likely drag on, allowing ISIS to exploit the power vacuum and continue destabilizing the region.
Despite the challenges, Puntland remains committed to eradicating ISIS from its territory. The battle in the mountains is far from over, but with sustained efforts, Puntland has the potential to deliver a significant blow to ISIS and secure lasting stability for the region.