AFRICOM denies that airstrikes in Somalia are being used to displace civilians and push them into flood-prone areas

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has denied allegations that airstrikes against Al-Shabaab militants in southern Somalia are being used to displace civilians or push them into areas at risk of flooding due to anticipated rains related to El Niño.

A spokesperson for AFRICOM stated that U.S. forces do not target civilians and do not use weather conditions and flooding as a tactic of war.

The spokesperson added that U.S. forces target legitimate military objectives and take measures to minimize harm that may result from military operations affecting civilians.

The Guardian presented the situation in Jilib

AFRICOM's response came after the newspaper The Guardian published a report about the situation of people living in the town of Jilib in the Middle Juba region, where local residents reported that the recurring airstrikes have made it difficult for them to leave the town.

The report cited local people who said that some families have sought refuge along the banks of the Jubba River, fleeing the airstrikes and fears of further attacks.

Those interviewed by the newspaper also stated that the airstrikes have caused deaths and damage to homes, although these claims have not been independently verified.

Concerns about flooding of the Jubba River

The Guardian's report also highlighted concerns that the expected rains and potential flooding could increase the risks facing families living along the Jubba River.

Some of the sources cited by the newspaper have argued that military operations are pushing people into areas at risk of flooding. AFRICOM has categorically denied the allegations related to airstrikes aimed at displacing civilians.

Therefore, there are two different issues: the allegations from local people regarding the impact of the airstrikes and AFRICOM's position that the targets are legitimate military sites. The accusation that the airstrikes are deliberately used to displace civilians has not yet been independently verified.

Memory of the 2023 floods

Somalia was hit by widespread flooding in 2023 associated with El Niño, which caused the displacement of more than 1.2 million people, according to the report.

Relief agencies have also warned of the risk of further flooding that could affect areas along the Jubba River, as people living in parts of southern Somalia face severe security and humanitarian conditions.

This issue has once again highlighted the importance of investigating the impact of airstrikes on civilians and ensuring that military operations comply with international laws protecting civilians.