Mogadishu: The Somali information minister announced on Sunday the successful neutralization of 17 al-Shabaab commanders over the past six months. This significant development marks a crucial step in Somalia's ongoing battle against the insurgent group.

According to Anadolu Agency, Minister Daud Aweis stated the government's unwavering commitment to counterterrorism efforts in a statement shared on US social media platform X. He emphasized that al-Shabaab members who choose to abandon violence and participate in rehabilitation programs would be offered amnesty.

The al-Qaeda-affiliated group has been waging an insurgency against the Somali government for more than 16 years, frequently targeting security forces, officials, and civilians in the process. In response, since last July, the Somali army, bolstered by the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia and other international partners, has intensified operations against al-Shabaab.

The United Nations Security Council, acknowledging the importance of these efforts, renewed the mandate for the African Union's mission in December. A UK-backed resolution extended its authorization until December 31, further supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism.