JOWHAR, Somalia — Fierce fighting erupted on January 25, 2025, near Ceel-baraf in the Middle Shabelle region between two clan militias. The clashes, which continued into the night, resulted in an unspecified number of casualties and injuries.

Both sides reportedly received external support, intensifying fears of further violence. Local security officials and residents remain on high alert, concerned about the potential spread of the conflict.

Former Hirshabelle assembly member Abdirahman Mohamed Guure called for urgent peace efforts, highlighting the recurring nature of violence in the region and the failure of past agreements to maintain stability.

The Hiraan-Middle Shabelle border has long been a flashpoint for clan disputes. Recent clashes echo a tragic event last year when six Somali National Army soldiers were killed in a clan revenge attack in the same area.