GAROWE, Somalia — In the early hours of the morning, Puntland’s security forces repelled a daring assault on a regional army base in Dharjaale, near Bosaso town. The attack, led by ISIS militants, included foreign fighters from Morocco, Syria, and Ethiopia, according to Puntland’s Information Minister, Mohamud Aided Dirir. The swift and decisive response by the regional forces resulted in the deaths of several militants, neutralizing the immediate threat.

Local residents reported hearing intense gunfire and explosions as the militants launched their attack under the cover of darkness. Puntland’s security forces, known for their resilience, quickly mobilized and engaged the attackers, thwarting their plans.

This clash highlights the persistent challenge of ISIS’s attempts to gain a foothold in Somalia, particularly in Puntland, which has been relatively stable compared to other regions.

The presence of foreign fighters underscores the international dimensions of terrorism in Somalia. Groups like ISIS-Somalia are not only battling local and international forces but are also locked in deadly competition with al-Shabaab. Despite these challenges, Puntland’s ability to confront such threats reflects the determination of its security apparatus, even as questions linger about how foreign fighters manage to infiltrate the region.