Mogadishu, Somalia – A recent attack by the Somali extremist group al-Shabab targeted the SYL Hotel in the capital city of Mogadishu, causing a loud explosion and gunfire to be heard throughout the area Thursday night. Located in a normally secure part of the city near the presidential palace, the SYL Hotel is often frequented by government officials.
Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack on its Telegram channel, stating that its fighters successfully infiltrated the hotel. While details on casualties were not immediately available, this incident marks a resurgence in violence following a period of relative calm in Mogadishu. The extremist group, known for its opposition to Somalia’s federal government, has been responsible for numerous deadly attacks on hotels and other public spaces over the years.
The most recent significant attack in Mogadishu occurred in October 2022, when twin car bombings at a busy junction claimed the lives of at least 120 civilians. In response to the ongoing threat posed by al-Shabab, Somalia’s government has launched a high-profile offensive against the group, with the United States labeling it as one of al-Qaida’s most dangerous affiliates.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia has declared a “total war” against the extremists, who have seized control of large swathes of central and southern Somalia. The group has been the target of numerous U.S. airstrikes in recent years in an effort to combat its influence and activities in the region.
As the situation in Mogadishu remains volatile, authorities continue to work towards enhancing security measures to protect civilians and government officials from further attacks by groups like al-Shabab. The recent assault on the SYL Hotel serves as a reminder of the persistent threat posed by extremist organizations in Somalia and the challenges faced in ensuring the safety and stability of the region.