On May 27, U.S. forces carried out an airstrike in south-central Somalia targeting Abdullahi Haji Daud, a senior military commander for al-Shabab, according to a statement issued today by Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook.
Daud was one of al-Shabab's most senior military planners and served as a principal coordinator of al-Shabab's militia attacks in Somalia, Kenya and Uganda, Cook said, adding that Daud held several positions of authority within the terrorist organization over the years, including head of the Amniyat, al-Shabab's security and intelligence branch.
Daud has been responsible for the loss of many innocent lives through attacks he has planned and carried out, the press secretary said
“We are confident that the removal from the terrorist network of this experienced al-Shabab commander with extensive operational experience will disrupt near-term attack planning, potentially saving many innocent lives,” Cook added.
Officials are currently assessing the results of the operation and will provide additional information as and when appropriate, Cook said. U.S. forces remain committed to supporting Somalia’s government, the Somali National Army, and African Union Mission in Somalia partners in defeating al-Shabab and establishing a safe and secure environment in Somalia, the press secretary added.