Mogadishu, Somalia — The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has condemned a recent mortar attack in the Halane area of Mogadishu, a zone housing several international organizations and diplomatic missions. The extremist group Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the assault, which resulted in casualties among civilians and security personnel.

“This heinous attack will not deter us or the Somali Security Forces from pursuing lasting peace and security in Somalia. We reaffirm our commitment to combat terrorism and build a peaceful and prosperous Somalia,” stated Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Special Representative of the African Union Commission and Head of ATMIS.

ATMIS extended its condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery for those injured. The mission’s Senior Leadership Team visited the impacted sites following the attack to assess the situation and coordinate with local authorities.

The United Nations has not yet commented on the incident.

This attack comes just days after CIA Director William J. Burns visited the Mogadishu airport area, where he reportedly held a secret meeting with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Somalia’s National Intelligence Director Abdullahi Sanbalolshe.

Mogadishu has seen a surge in violence in recent months, as militant and militia groups gain increased access to weapons. Corruption within the Somali government forces has contributed to an influx of illicit arms on the black market, further destabilizing security in the capital.

Al-Shabaab has escalated assassination attacks across the city, specifically targeting members of the business community who have installed CCTV cameras on their premises to deter crime. Security sources report that prices of weapons and ammunition on the black market have dropped significantly following the UN Security Council’s decision last December to lift the partial arms embargo on Somalia.

The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, reaffirming support for Somalia’s efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.