U.S. Warns Al-Shabaab Threat Could Extend Beyond Somalia

WASHINGTON — The United States is warning that Al-Shabaab and other jihadist groups operating in Africa are becoming increasingly interconnected, raising concerns that militant networks could eventually extend their operations beyond their traditional areas of activity.

U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) says it is closely monitoring links between jihadist organizations, including the movement of money, personnel, weapons, equipment and technological knowledge. Washington is particularly concerned about groups exploiting weak state institutions and areas where security pressure is limited to recruit fighters, raise funds and expand their operations.

U.S. Army Lieutenant General John Brennan Jr., AFRICOM’s deputy commander, said extremist organizations can quickly expand when they encounter weak security environments. He described African jihadist groups as increasingly adaptable and capable of exploiting gaps in government control and counterterrorism pressure.

Somalia remains a major focus of U.S. counterterrorism efforts because Al-Shabaab has maintained an insurgency for years and has demonstrated the ability to conduct attacks beyond Somalia’s borders, including in neighboring Kenya.