Somalia’s combined Somali National Army (SNA) and militia offensives against Al-Shabaab in central regions, including Hiiraan and Galgadud, are gaining momentum. In recent months, forces have reclaimed significant territory while also targeting the group’s finances and ideology. However, new government measures are sparking debate. One controversial decision involves using the military to distribute humanitarian aid in liberated areas. While aid is desperately needed, critics warn that military-led aid delivery risks drawing resources from combat operations, blurring lines between humanitarians and combatants, and potentially making aid workers targets. A better approach, they argue, is for the SNA to focus on securing main supply routes and improving humanitarian access for NGOs and UN agencies. The second contentious move is a government crackdown on Al-Shabaab propaganda, ordering internet service providers to block extremist websites, social media pages, and Telegram, and instructing media houses to stop broadcasting Al-Shabaab content. Media organisations warn the directive could suppress press freedom and silence legitimate criticism. While Somalia’s multi-pronged offensive has achieved more progress in five months than in the past five years, the government must ensure its policies do not undermine humanitarian principles, press freedom, or the safety of those working in liberated territories.