MOGADISHU, Somalia — A new report by The Wall Street Journal says alleged arms transfers and training links between Somalia’s Al-Shabaab and Yemen’s Houthi movement remain active, despite the targeting of some key figures involved in facilitating the relationship.
Citing U.S. and Somali officials, the report says weapons shipments linked to the Houthis are still reaching Al-Shabaab, while members of the Somali militant group are reportedly receiving training in Yemen, particularly in the use of drones and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The United Nations has previously raised concerns over weapons flows from Yemen and the strengthening relationship between the two groups.
The latest allegations suggest that the network may continue to operate despite the reported killing of an individual described as a key intermediary between the two sides.
If confirmed, the reported cooperation could increase concerns over Al-Shabaab’s access to additional technical expertise, particularly in drone operations, IED technology and weapons procurement.
However, there is no publicly confirmed evidence at this stage that Al-Shabaab has obtained advanced Houthi capabilities such as surface-to-air missiles or long-range drones.
The alleged cooperation is likely to remain a concern for Somalia and regional security officials, particularly as militant groups seek to expand their access to emerging technologies and weapons networks across the Red Sea.
