Wounded Surge in Somalia as Conflict Escalates, Warns ICRC

MOGADISHU, 11 April 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Hospitals across Somalia are facing immense pressure as armed conflict intensifies, leading to a sharp rise in the number of wounded civilians and combatants, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported on Friday.

The ICRC has raised alarm over deteriorating security conditions in several regions, including Middle and Lower Shabelle, where recent clashes have led to mass displacement and increased civilian casualties. This follows fears of a resurgence by Al-Shabaab, the Al-Qaeda-affiliated jihadist group, despite past territorial losses inflicted by Somali government forces and their international partners.

Rising Casualties at a Glance

Conflict Overview

After being driven back in 2022 and 2023 by combined operations involving Somali National Army (SNA) and African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) forces, Al-Shabaab appears to be regaining ground. According to the ICRC, renewed fighting has been reported in:

Middle and Lower Shabelle (South-central Somalia)

Bari region (Puntland, Northeast)

Sool and Sanaag regions (North)

These areas have become flashpoints for military operations and insurgent attacks, with medical facilities near frontlines struggling to cope with the influx of injured.

Recent Escalations

On 18 March, a roadside bomb narrowly missed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy, underlining the continued threat Al-Shabaab poses to the capital, Mogadishu.

Earlier this month, rockets were fired near Mogadishu’s international airport, disrupting international air traffic and highlighting the group’s capacity for long-range strikes.

The group has reclaimed strategic positions along the coast and inland in the Shabelle regions.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The renewed hostilities have triggered fresh waves of displacement, with over 100,000 people forced to flee their homes since January. The ICRC expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation, calling for greater international support to sustain medical and emergency response operations.

“Several regions of Somalia have seen a sharp escalation of hostilities, and hospitals near active front lines are struggling to meet a surge in needs,” the ICRC stated.

Background on Al-Shabaab

Al-Shabaab is a militant jihadist group officially designated as a terrorist organisation by multiple international bodies, including the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the African Union. The group seeks to overthrow the Somali government and impose a strict form of Islamic law. It has conducted numerous deadly attacks targeting civilians, government officials, and international interests.