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Battle of Hargeisa (1988)

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Battle of Hargeisa
Part of Somaliland War of Independence
Date31 May 1988
LocationHargeisa, Somalia
Result SNM forces temporarily capture parts of Hargeisa
Belligerents
Somali National Movement (SNM) Somali Democratic Republic
Commanders and leaders
Col. Ahmed Mire Mohamed Gen. Mohamed Said Hersi Morgan
Strength
Unknown Unknown
Casualties and losses
Unknown Unknown

The Battle of Hargeisa occurred on 31 May 1988 during the Somaliland War of Independence, when the Somali National Movement (SNM) launched a surprise attack on Hargeisa, a major city in northern Somalia.

Background

In the late 1980s, the SNM intensified its insurgency against the regime of President Siad Barre, seeking autonomy for the northern regions. Hargeisa, being a strategic and symbolic city, became a focal point for SNM operations.

The Battle

On 31 May 1988, SNM forces, led by Col. Ahmed Mire Mohamed, initiated a coordinated assault on Hargeisa. The operation was meticulously planned, with prior reconnaissance missions conducted to assess government defenses. SNM fighters infiltrated the city from multiple directions, targeting key military installations and government facilities. The surprise attack led to the swift capture of significant portions of the city, although some areas, including the airport, remained under government control.

Aftermath

The SNM's incursion into Hargeisa prompted a fierce response from government forces, led by Gen. Mohamed Said Hersi Morgan. The Somali National Army (SNA) launched counter-offensives involving heavy artillery and aerial bombardments, resulting in widespread destruction and significant civilian casualties. The battle caused a mass exodus of residents, with many seeking refuge in neighboring regions and countries. Despite initial successes, SNM forces eventually withdrew from Hargeisa due to the overwhelming firepower of government troops.

Significance

The Battle of Hargeisa was a turning point in the Somaliland War of Independence. It demonstrated the SNM's capability to challenge the Somali government's control over major urban centers. The extensive destruction and humanitarian crisis resulting from the battle drew international attention to the conflict. The events of 31 May 1988 are commemorated in Somaliland as a symbol of resistance and the struggle for self-determination.

References

  1. "Gudo-galkii SNM ee Hargeysa 31 May 1988". Hargeisa Press. 31 May 2018. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
  2. "Gudogalkii Xoogagii SNM ee Hargaysa 31-5-1988". Bandhige. 31 May 2018. Retrieved 20 December 2024.
  3. "Daawo: Barnaamij Taariikheed Dagaalkii Qadhaadhaa ee ka Qarxey Hargeysa 1988 iyo Dhibkuu ka Tagey". Gabiley News. 15 July 2017. Retrieved 20 December 2024.

External Links