On March 18, 2025, a deadly roadside bomb exploded near the presidential palace in Mogadishu, Somalia, targeting the motorcade of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The attack resulted in the tragic deaths of at least three civilians, including journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe, marking the first journalist fatality in Somalia this year. The bombing occurred near Villa Somalia, the official residence of the president, as Mohamud’s convoy was en route to the airport.

Al-Shabaab, the extremist militant group linked to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that their fighters targeted the motorcade as it was leaving the presidential palace. Despite the violence, President Mohamud emerged unharmed and proceeded with his schedule, visiting the Middle Shabelle region to oversee military operations against the group.

The international community swiftly condemned the attack. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, reaffirmed the UN’s unwavering support for the Somali government in its ongoing battle against terrorism. The US and British Embassy in Mogadishu also condemned the bombing, emphasizing their commitment to supporting Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts.

The bombing highlights the persistent threat posed by al-Shabaab, despite recent territorial gains by Somali government forces and African Union peacekeepers. The group continues to control parts of rural Somalia and regularly targets government officials, military personnel, and civilians.

As Somalia intensifies its military campaign against al-Shabaab, the challenge of achieving lasting peace and stability remains significant, with attacks like this underscoring the complexity of the ongoing conflict.