Gunmen affiliated with Al Shabaab attacked a hotel in Beledweyne, Somalia, where local leaders were meeting, resulting in multiple fatalities and an ongoing siege. The attack reflects the group’s strategy to destabilize the region and enforce its interpretation of Islamic law. Witnesses reported explosions and gunfire during the event.
On March 11, 2025, gunmen assaulted a hotel in Beledweyne, central Somalia, where local elders and government officials were convening. Eyewitnesses reported a siege, with Dahir Amin Jesow, a federal lawmaker, confirming at least four fatalities and indicating that armed forces were attempting to dislodge the assailants from the premises.
The militant group Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that they had killed over 10 individuals. Among those present was Abdullahi Fidow, a clan elder, who noted that the gathering aimed to strategize against Al Shabaab’s activities in the region, but he unfortunately arrived too late due to personal matters.
Al Shabaab, which has links to Al Qaeda, perpetuates violence in Somalia with the intent of overthrowing the government to impose strict Islamic Sharia law. Witnesses recounted the chaos, with one shopkeeper, Ali Suleiman, stating that he heard distinct blasts followed by intermittent gunfire. He observed that parts of the Qahira Hotel suffered significant damage amid the conflict between government forces and attackers. Halima Nur, a nearby resident, also reported ongoing gunfire throughout the continuing siege.
The attack on the hotel in Beledweyne underscores the persistent threat posed by Al Shabaab in Somalia. With casualties reported and a siege in progress, the situation remains dire as government forces engage with militants. This incident signifies the ongoing challenges in stabilizing the region against extremist violence.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
