Horn Digest 
25th Jan – 2025 (Horn Digest): The Puntland administration’s recent declaration of war against ISIS in the Bari region has sparked widespread concern, particularly regarding the targeting of immigrants from Yemen and Syria. These communities, some of whom have resided in Bosasso for years, are now facing increased scrutiny and potential human rights abuses as the Puntland security forces conduct counter-terrorism operations. Suspicions of providing support to ISIS insurgents operating in the Galgala mountains have led to the detention and harassment of many immigrants, raising serious concerns about due process and the potential for discriminatory practices.
ISIS has maintained a significant presence in Bosasso for an extended period, extorting businesses and establishing a foothold in the region. The Puntland government’s decision to launch a military offensive against the group was likely driven by a combination of factors, including pressure from the business community and a desire to assert its authority. However, some analysts argue that the primary motivation behind the campaign is to attract funding from Western donors, rather than genuinely combating ISIS. This skepticism is further fueled by the Puntland government’s past reluctance to engage in the fight against Al-Shabaab, despite repeated calls for cooperation from the federal government and other regional administrations like Galmudug.
The lack of a unified federal government stance on the Puntland-ISIS conflict has further exacerbated concerns about the campaign’s objectives and its potential consequences. While Prime Minister Hamse Barre has publicly endorsed the Puntland government’s actions, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has remained conspicuously silent, raising questions about the federal government’s level of involvement and its support for the operation. This lack of coordination and the potential for conflicting interests between the federal and regional governments could undermine the effectiveness of the anti-ISIS campaign and potentially exacerbate existing political tensions within Somalia.