MOGADISHU, Somalia — Foreign jihadi fighters from Syria, Iraq, and Yemen are bolstering Al-Shabab’s capabilities in Somalia, Aries Intelligence reported Tuesday.
“These combat veterans are rapidly changing the conflict dynamics by training militants and providing advanced military expertise,” the report said.
Aries Intelligence highlighted Al-Shabab’s growing alliance with Yemen’s Houthi rebels, noting the groups cooperate despite ideological differences.
The report said Houthis have supplied Al-Shabab with sniper rifles, machine guns, and other weapons in exchange for maritime intelligence.
“Somalia has become a node within the global jihadist contractor network,” Aries said, citing the rise of military contractors like Syria-based Malhama Tactical.
“These professional fighters are spreading military knowledge and complicating counterterrorism efforts worldwide,” the report added.
Puntland authorities seized suicide drones linked to the Houthis in mid-2024, signaling Yemen-style drone warfare is now present in Somalia, Aries noted.
The report warned that Somalia’s political fragility and weak economy leave it vulnerable to a more sophisticated Al-Shabab armed with foreign training and weapons.
“What began as Iran’s investment in Yemen is now reshaping conflicts hundreds of miles away,” Aries Intelligence concluded.
