Somalia and the African Union (AU) have strongly denounced a terrorist attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu on Tuesday. The car bomb explosion targeted the president as he traveled to the frontlines in Hirshabelle to support military efforts against al-Shabab.
According to Somalia’s Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the attack took place in the Hamar-Jajab district of the capital. An explosive device planted in a roadside building was detonated as the convoy passed, damaging nearby structures and vehicles. The ministry confirmed that the president was unharmed and continued his journey as planned. However, several civilians were killed or injured, including a journalist.
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The al-Qaeda-linked group al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it specifically targeted the president’s convoy. The Somali government condemned the assault, vowing that it would not deter ongoing military operations to defeat the group. Officials urged national unity and international support to restore peace and stability.
The AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also condemned the bombing, calling it a “desperate attempt” by al-Shabab to undermine Somalia’s leadership and security efforts. He emphasized the growing public support for the government’s counterterrorism operations and reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to assisting Somalia in stabilizing the country.
Youssouf called for continued regional and international cooperation to combat terrorism and ensure lasting peace in the Horn of Africa. The AU’s Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia pledged ongoing assistance to help authorities protect civilians and secure the nation.