Statement by Victoria Nuland, Spokesperson - Capture of Kismayo from al-Shabaab

For Immediate Release, October 3, 2012

U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesperson

2012/1593

The United States welcomes the capture of the strategic port city of Kismayo by African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) peacekeepers and Somali forces. Al-Shabaab's departure from Kismayo demonstrates continued momentum by pro-government forces against this terrorist organization. It is clear that al-Shabaab's extremist views and violent tactics have no future in a modern Somalia that is seeking to rebuild after more than two decades of conflict.

The United States calls on all forces present in and around Kismayo to ensure full respect for international human rights and humanitarian law. We urge rapid establishment of an inclusive political framework to ensure the city is governed in the interest of all its citizens and of other Somalis who depend on its port.