The fall of Adan Yabaal in Middle Shabelle marks a major milestone in Somalia’s fight against Al‑Shabaab. After over a decade under militant control, Somali National Army (SNA) troops, supported by Ma’awiisley fighters from Hiiraan and Galgaduud and Daraawish forces from Hirshabelle, liberated the town. Al‑Shabaab’s withdrawal was swift, with militants reportedly taking nearly 1,000 civilians as human shields. Adan Yabaal served as a critical hub for the jihadists, hosting their largest medical facility, a bomb‑making and IED training center, and a strategic logistics base for attacks on Mogadishu. Its loss significantly disrupts Al‑Shabaab’s operations and strengthens government control over vital north‑south routes. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hailed the liberation as a decisive blow, though experts caution that holding the town will be challenging. Dense vegetation, favorable terrain for militants, and insufficient local security forces create risks of counter‑attacks. The government’s newly launched national stabilisation plan aims to provide basic services, quick impact projects, and long‑term infrastructure in recovered areas. Donor engagement will be critical to sustaining gains. Without coordinated planning, adequate hold forces, and realistic promises, the victory at Adan Yabaal could be difficult to maintain in the long run, despite its strategic and symbolic importance.