The media unit of the Somalia-based Al-Shabaab Movement released a statement accusing the US of pursuing hostile policies against the Somali people. The statement, published in English, alleged that Washington’s approach to Somalia for years has been disguised under rhetoric of partnership and development.
While the movement claims the US supports the Somali people, it accuses Washington of backing corrupt leaders, land grabbers, and warlords in the country. The statement argued that the US is waging an economic war against Somalia’s critical infrastructure and trying to steer the country’s internal politics more in line with American interests than those of the Somali people.
Trump Era and Allegations Against Somalis
Al-Shabaab claimed that hostility toward the Somali people became more visible since Donald Trump’s administration took office. The statement alleged that Somalis have been targeted with derogatory language and attempts to damage their reputation.
The movement pointed to the recent Omar Arten case as an example of this approach. It claimed that the case reflects US decision-making processes shaped not only by security concerns or counter-extremism efforts but also by ethnic and racial prejudices targeting Somalis.
Drone Strikes and Call to Youth
The statement asserted that the US attitude toward Somalia is evident in various areas. It alleged that drone strikes in the country have targeted women, children, and elderly civilians.
Al-Shabaab continued its message by addressing the Somali people, especially the youth, urging them not to waste their time on "trivial and empty matters like the World Cup." The movement called for the removal of foreign forces and the local actors they allegedly support from the country.
Emphasis on Sharia and Call to Join Ranks
The statement emphasized the need to establish a system in Somalia based on dignity, freedom, and full independence. It also called for the country to be governed according to Islamic Sharia law.
Al-Shabaab concluded its message by urging Somalis to emerge from the darkness of occupation and humiliation, reclaim their sovereignty and honor, and join their ranks. It is known that clashes between Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab and security forces supported internationally, especially by the US and Turkey, have been ongoing in Somalia for many years.
