MOGADISHU, Somalia — July 25, 2026 — Al-Shabaab militants carried out separate attacks targeting Somali and Ethiopian forces in southern Somalia, with an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion injuring a Somali soldier in Janaale district of Lower Shabelle region and mortar shells hitting an Ethiopian military base in Bardale district of Bay region, according to security sources.

Security sources said an IED planted by Al-Shabaab militants exploded near a position occupied by Somali government forces in Janaale district, Lower Shabelle region. The blast targeted troops stationed inside the strategic town, injuring at least one Somali soldier.

The injured soldier was transported for medical treatment, according to security officials familiar with the incident. No additional casualties were immediately reported, and Somali authorities have not released further details about the attack.

In a separate incident, Al-Shabaab militants fired mortar shells at an Ethiopian military base in Bardale district, Bay region, overnight. Security sources said several rounds landed inside the military compound, causing damage, although details about casualties remain unclear.

Local residents in Bardale said they heard multiple explosions during the night as the mortar attack struck the Ethiopian forces’ base. Security personnel were assessing the impact of the attack and investigating the circumstances surrounding the shelling.

Neither the Somali government nor Ethiopian military officials had immediately issued a detailed public statement regarding the two attacks.

The IED attack in Janaale resulted in one reported injury among Somali government forces, according to security sources. There were no confirmed reports of civilian casualties from either incident.

Security officials said operations were launched following the Janaale explosion to assess the area and prevent possible follow-up attacks. In Bardale, security forces were reviewing the damage caused by the mortar fire and monitoring militant activity around the district.

The attacks reflect Al-Shabaab’s continued use of asymmetric tactics, including roadside explosives, mortar attacks, and ambushes, against Somali security forces and their regional partners.

Janaale district has remained one of the contested areas in Lower Shabelle region due to its strategic location and its importance along routes connecting several parts of southern Somalia. The area has witnessed repeated clashes between government forces and Al-Shabaab militants over the past years.

Al-Shabaab previously controlled Janaale before Somali forces, supported by international partners, recaptured the town in military operations. Despite losing control of many major towns, the militant group has continued to carry out attacks using guerrilla tactics.

Lower Shabelle has frequently been targeted by Al-Shabaab due to its proximity to Mogadishu and its importance as an agricultural and transportation corridor. The group has carried out several attacks against military bases, government officials, and security convoys in the region.

Bay region has also remained a significant area of Al-Shabaab activity. Bardale and surrounding districts have experienced security challenges due to the presence of militants operating in rural areas.

Ethiopian forces have maintained a presence in parts of Somalia as part of regional security efforts against Al-Shabaab. Ethiopian troops have previously faced attacks, including mortar strikes, roadside bombings, and armed assaults targeting military positions.

In recent years, Al-Shabaab has increased attacks against Somali forces and allied troops across southern and central Somalia. The group has used explosives and indirect fire attacks to target military installations while attempting to disrupt government-led security operations.

Somali security forces have not provided detailed information about possible arrests or operations launched after the Janaale attack.

Security officials said investigations were continuing in both locations to determine the full impact of the attacks and identify those responsible.

The Somali government has repeatedly stated that military operations against Al-Shabaab remain ongoing, with support from regional forces and international partners.

Security analysts say continued attacks against military positions show that Al-Shabaab retains the ability to conduct coordinated strikes despite pressure from ongoing counterterrorism operations.

The latest incidents are expected to increase security measures around military bases and key routes in Lower Shabelle and Bay regions, particularly areas where militant groups remain active.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations into the attacks continue.

The attacks highlight the continuing security challenge facing Somalia as government forces attempt to weaken Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities. While the group has lost control of many urban areas, it continues to conduct attacks using explosives and indirect fire against military targets.

The targeting of both Somali and Ethiopian forces demonstrates Al-Shabaab’s continued focus on security personnel and foreign troops supporting Somalia’s counterinsurgency efforts.