Autor: Shucayb Dad Mohamed

The ongoing battle in the Calmiskaad Mountains of the Bari region has become increasingly intense, with Puntland defense forces fighting against ISIS militants. Representing Sahal Cable media, I, Shucayb Dad, had the opportunity to visit the battlefronts to witness firsthand the realities of the conflictMy First Experience Reporting from a War Zone.

This was my first time reporting from an active war zone and my first visit to the Calmiskaad Mountains since the launch of Operation Hilaac against ISIS. My journey started in Bosaso and took me deep into the mountains, covering over 380 kilometers of rugged terrain, where roads are nearly impassable for vehicles.

As we reached the village of Timirshe, the commander leading our convoy instructed the soldiers to remain on high alert, warning that the biggest threat ahead was landmines planted by ISIS militants. I was the only journalist embedded with the military unit, accompanied by my cameraman.

As we moved forward, the convoy received multiple warnings about landmines on the road. I vividly recall two incidents where mines exploded, targeting the mine-clearing team ahead of us. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but several soldiers sustained injuries.

During my journey, I passed through more than ten deserted villages. Not a single civilian was in sight—evidence that the conflict had forced mass displacement. Many of the areas we passed through bore the scars of heavy bombardment, showing clear signs of previous airstrikes.

The Frontline Situation

After a long and challenging journey, I finally reached the battlefront, where I met the officers leading Operation Calmiskaad. The military took me to underground tunnels that ISIS militants had dug for shelter. I also visited the bomb-making facilities used by ISIS, which were now under military control. Inside these workshops, I saw confiscated explosive devices and materials used in making deadly attacks.

As we moved through the battlefield, I saw bodies of foreign fighters lying on the roads—evidence of the heavy toll the fighting had taken on the militant group. This raises concerns about potential health risks from the decomposing corpses.

The operation is receiving aerial support from the United States and the United Arab Emirates. I personally witnessed destroyed vehicles and motorcycles left behind after airstrikes targeted ISIS positions. These air raids have significantly weakened the group, allowing Puntland forces to make strategic advances.

Interviews and Insights from the Battlefield

One of the leading commanders of the operation, General Ciise Yulux, told me that the forces were battling foreign fighters from at least 18 different countries. “We are fighting foreign militants from 18 countries, but we are winning,” he declared confidently.

While Puntland forces have made significant progress, the roads leading to the frontlines remain highly dangerous. As I was returning from the battlefield, one of the security vehicles in our convoy hit a landmine, killing one soldier and injuring three others.

Conclusion

My visit to the battlefront gave me firsthand insight into Puntland’s ongoing efforts to eradicate ISIS from the Calmiskaad Mountains. While the military has made notable advancements, the battle is far from over, and challenges remain.

The key question now is: Will Puntland succeed in eliminating ISIS from the region? And what long-term impact will this conflict have on Bari and the broader Puntland region?