US military forces launched air strikes against the leader of Somalia´s Al-Qaeda-linked Shebab, the government said earlier today claiming “casualties” but with no details if the main target was killed.
“The Americans carried out a major air strike targeting a gathering by senior Al-Shebab officials, including their leader Abu-Zubayr,” said Abdukadir Mohamed Nur, governor for southern Somalia´s Lower Shabelle region.
Abu-Zubayr is the often used name for Shebab supreme commander Ahmed Abdi Godane, listed by the US State Department as one of the world´s eight top terror fugitives.
The Pentagon have confirmed an “operation” was carried out.
“We are assessing the results of the operation and will provide additional information as and when appropriate,” Pentagon Press Secretary Rear Admiral John Kirby said in a statement.
