The arid mountains of Somalia Puntland region have become one of the Islamic State group most active theatres anywhere in the world — and the group is using its remote African stronghold to coordinate operations well beyond the Horn of Africa, according to regional security analysts and local officials.
The semi-autonomous Puntland government has launched a major military offensive to dislodge the militants from their cave and mountain positions, in what officials describe as a campaign critical not only to Somalia own stability but to global security.
An African ISIS Stronghold
Islamic State fighters first established a presence in Puntland mountainous interior several years ago, taking advantage of the region remoteness, sparse population and ungoverned terrain. After suffering significant defeats in Iraq and Syria, the group has increasingly looked to Somalia as a base for resurgence.
Unlike the better-known al-Shabaab militants who operate across much of southern and central Somalia, the IS contingent in Puntland has kept a lower profile but grown steadily in capability. The Calmiskaat mountain range has served as a key base, with fighters establishing training camps and logistics networks largely undisturbed for years.
Puntland Offensive
Puntland government forces drove ISIS fighters out of a string of occupied villages, forcing the remaining militants into cave positions in the highlands. Daily clashes continue, with casualties mounting on both sides.
Despite the ongoing violence, Puntland military command says forces are making progress and expressed confidence the group can be defeated. This is not just Puntland fight — it is a fight for the future of Somalia, and for the stability of the wider region, a senior Puntland security official told France 24 Reporters programme. We will go wherever they hide.
Global Security Stakes
The stakes extend well beyond Somalia borders. Western counter-terrorism officials have warned that ISIS Africa operations could serve as a launchpad for attacks targeting Western interests.
A March 2026 BBC investigation found that ISIS fighters in Somalia had been actively communicating with the group central leadership and building networks linking African franchises to broader operational planning.
Humanitarian Toll
As fighting intensifies in the mountains, local humanitarian organisations have warned of growing civilian displacement. Villagers in areas surrounding the Calmiskaat range have been fleeing their homes for weeks, heading to Puntland main towns and coastal settlements.
The Puntland region limited state capacity means absorbing large numbers of displaced civilians places a significant strain on already stretched public services and local aid networks.