Bombing and Destruction of Hargeisa and Burco during the Isaaq Genocide
The destruction of Hargeisa and Burao (Somali: duqayntii Hargeysa iyo Burco) occurred in 1988 during the Somaliland War of Independence. It was part of a counteroffensive launched by the Somali government under President Mohamed Siad Barre against the Somali National Movement (SNM), an opposition group active in northern Somalia (modern-day Somaliland). The campaign involved indiscriminate aerial bombardments and ground assaults on the cities of Hargeisa and Burao, resulting in large-scale destruction and civilian casualties. It is estimated that 90% of Hargeisa and 70% of Burao were destroyed, displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians.
Background.
The Somali Civil War began in the late 1980s as opposition groups emerged against the military regime of Siad Barre. The SNM, composed primarily of members of the Isaaq clan, sought to overthrow Barre's government and establish autonomy in the northern regions. By mid-1988, the SNM had launched Successful offensive and captured key areas in Hargeisa and Burao. In response, the Somali regime initiated a massive military operation to retake the cities and crush the rebellion.
Destruction of Hargeisa.
The city of Hargeisa, home to approximately 500,000 people at the time, faced heavy aerial bombardments by the Somali Air Force. Residential neighborhoods, markets, and infrastructure were targeted indiscriminately. It is reported that 90% of the city was destroyed, with widespread civilian casualties. Survivors described the city as being "reduced to rubble," with entire neighborhoods leveled. The destruction caused mass displacement, with most residents fleeing to refugee camps in neighboring Ethiopia.
Battle and Bombing of Burao.
The SNM successfully captured the city of Burao on May 27, 1988, marking a significant victory for the group. However, the Somali regime retaliated by conducting aerial bombardments and artillery strikes, destroying 70% of the city's infrastructure. The destruction resulted in widespread loss of civilian life and the death of Mohamed Ali, a key SNM leader who played a prominent role in the battle.
Aftermath.
The destruction of Hargeisa and Burao had a catastrophic impact on northern Somalia.