Islamic State released new photo report from Somalia

Somalia: On 23rd September 2018, Islamic State in Somalia released the following photo report. ITCT Associate Jasmine Opperman says, “Increased claims by the Islamic State in Somalia is more desperate attempt at gaining support than actual support in opposing a much stronger al-Shabaab. Al-Shabaab strength far exceeds that of the Islamic State in Somalia. At most the Islamic State in Somalia has 300 fighters, with an estimated of 20 foreigners, with most of them confined to the group led by Mumin in Puntland. Estimates of al-Shabaab fighters ranges from 4000 to 5000, with the advantage of a historical presence. For now there is simply no comparative advantage to the Islamic State in Somalia in relation to sophisticated attacks and creating alternative government structures. al-Shabaab dominance in Somalia remains unchallenged, even from the Islamic State in Somalia.”