On March 18, 2025, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud narrowly escaped an assassination attempt orchestrated by the militant group al-Shabaab. A powerful roadside bomb exploded near Villa Somalia, the presidential palace in Mogadishu, as the president’s convoy was en route to the airport for a scheduled visit to frontline troops battling insurgents.
The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people, including members of the presidential security team and civilians caught in the blast. At least 20 others sustained injuries, with some in critical condition. While the president remained unharmed, the incident underscored the persistent threat posed by al-Shabaab, which has continued its campaign of violence despite intensified counterterrorism efforts by Somali and international forces.
Somali government officials swiftly condemned the attack, vowing to redouble their efforts to eliminate al-Shabaab and enhance national security. This latest assassination attempt highlights the ongoing struggle against terrorism in Somalia, where government forces, backed by African Union troops and international allies, have been engaged in a prolonged battle to dismantle the extremist group’s strongholds.
Global leaders have expressed solidarity with Somalia in the wake of the attack, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the country’s fight against terrorism and ensuring stability in the region.
