Tuesday May 20, 2025
Ma’awisley fighters from the Hawaadle clan prepare for battle in the bushlands near El Hareeri, Hiiraan region, Somalia, on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The militia launched a coordinated assault against Al-Shabaab militants believed to be regrouping in the area as part of ongoing efforts to reclaim territory in central Somalia.
Beledweyne (HOL) — Heavy fighting broke out early Tuesday between Al-Shabaab militants and Ma’awisley fighters from the Hawaadle clan near the rural settlement of El Hareeri in Somalia’s Hiiraan region. The attack follows ongoing militia-led efforts to push the insurgent group from central Somalia.
The clashes erupted when Hawaadle Ma’awisley fighters attacked Al-Shabaab members who had regrouped in the bushlands surrounding Ceel Hareeri, local officials said. Residents reported intense gunfire and heavy weapons fire, with explosions heard from villages miles away.
Initial reports suggest casualties on both sides, though the exact number remains unconfirmed due to the ongoing nature of the fighting.
“Our campaign won’t stop until Al-Shabaab is cleared from Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle,” said a Ma’awisley commander, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.
The confrontation is the latest in a string of battles between community-based militias and the al-Qaida-linked group across central Somalia. The Ma’awisley militia—named for the traditional sarong worn by many of its fighters—has been instrumental in local uprisings against Al-Shabaab, often operating alongside Somali government forces.
In recent months, Somali authorities have encouraged and supported Ma’awisley operations with limited military aid and logistical backing. The government has framed these militias as key partners in its campaign to reclaim rural areas still under Al-Shabaab control.
Despite losing major urban centers, Al-Shabaab maintains influence in much of the countryside, where it collects taxes, enforces its harsh interpretation of Islamic law, and stages attacks on military and civilian targets.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow as information becomes available.