A Guardian investigation found that a November 2025 US drone strike on Jamaame, Somalia, killed at least 12 civilians, including eight children, making it the deadliest US operation against civilians in Somalia in nearly two decades. Witnesses say no al-Shabaab fighters were present in the farming town, raising serious questions about US intelligence and accountability. The strike occurred after the Trump administration loosened oversight rules governing drone operations, allowing military commanders greater autonomy. While the US military acknowledged conducting strikes in the area, it has not admitted to causing civilian casualties or released details about its targeting decisions. Bereaved families have received no apology, investigation, or compensation despite a dedicated US compensation fund. Military commanders responsible for the strike have also faced no consequences. The investigation links the escalation—strikes have surged sixfold since 2024—to President Trump’s dismissive rhetoric about Somalis, raising concerns that diminished oversight and dehumanizing language are eroding safeguards meant to protect civilians.
The Guardian
