US Lieutenant General John Brennan stated on February 4, 2026, that the United States has shifted its focus on Islamist terrorism from the Middle East to Africa, particularly Somalia, where Abdulqadir Mumin, the true leader of the global ISIS network's caliphate, is based in the Golis Mountains with key leaders directing operations worldwide. This statement was posted on X during the reporting window from 12:45 AM to 1:45 AM UTC, according to a report by TIKLS_. Brennan clarified that Mumin oversees ISIS operations extending to the Far East, Europe, and the US from his base in Somalia's Golis Mountains, as quoted in the X post. The statement highlights Mumin's role in directing terrorist activities not only across Africa but globally. This US assessment follows recent reports of US forces delivering heavy weaponry to the Somali National Army in Middle Shabelle on February 3, 2026, to support counter-terrorism efforts, as stated by Somali National Television in prior coverage. Brief clashes between Somali Police Force and military units in Mogadishu's Howlwadaag District on February 3 wounded three soldiers before stabilization by the National Intelligence and Security Agency, per security sources.
