Islamic Courts Union 5435324 225687578 2008-07-14T22:17:12Z Davideu 6244663 /* After conquering Mogadishu */ {{update}} {{Infobox_Country| |native_name = ''Midowga Maxkamadaha Islaamiga''<br/> اتحاد المحاكم الإسلامية<br/>''Ittihād al-mahākim al-islāmiyya''<br/> Supreme Islamic Courts Council |common_name = Islamic Courts Union |image_flag =Flag_of_the_ICU.svg |image_coat = ICU seal.svg |image_map = 2006 ICU.png |national_motto = There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God |national_anthem = |official_languages = [[Somali language|Somali]] and [[Arabic]] |capital = [[Mogadishu]] |latd= |latm= |latNS= |longd= |longm= |longEW= | |largest_city = [[Mogadishu]] |government_type = [[Sharia]] [[krytocracy]] |leader_title1 = Shura Chairman |leader_title2 = Executive Chairman |leader_name1 = [[Hassan Dahir Aweys]] |leader_name2 = [[Sheikh Sharif Ahmed]] |area_rank = |area_magnitude = |area_km2 = |area_sq_mi = |percent_water = |population_estimate = |population_density_km2 = |population_density_sq_mi = |population_estimate_year = |population_estimate_rank = |population_census = |population_census_year = |population_density_rank = |GDP_PPP_year = |GDP_PPP = |GDP_PPP_rank = |GDP_PPP_per_capita = |GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = |HDI_year = |HDI = |HDI_rank = |HDI_category = |sovereignty_type = [[Counter-Government]] |sovereignty_note = Sought to establish unified Somali government |established_event1 = Established |established_event2 = Dissolved |established_date1 = [[June 6]], [[2006]] |established_date2 = [[December 27]], [[2006]] |currency = [[Somali shilling]] |currency_code = SOS |country_code = so |time_zone = [[East Africa Time|EAT]] |utc_offset = +3 |time_zone_DST = ''not observed'' |utc_offset_DST = +3 |cctld = [[.so]] |calling_code = 252 (Somalia) |footnotes = }} The '''Islamic Courts Union''' ('''ICU''', [[Somali language|Somali]]: Midowga Maxkamadaha Islaamiga, [[Arabic language|Arabic]]: اتحاد المحاكم الإسلامية ''Ittihād al-mahākim al-islāmiyya'') was a group of [[Sharia]] Courts who united themselves to form a rival administration to the [[Transitional Federal Parliament|Transitional Federal Government]] (TFG) of [[Somalia]], with [[Sharif Ahmed|Sharif Sheikh Ahmed]] as head of the ICU. They are also known as the '''Joint Islamic Courts''', '''Union of Islamic Courts''' ('''UIC'''), '''Supreme Islamic Courts Council''' ('''SICC''')<ref name="TROOPS-DIG-IN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L13220054.htm|title=Troops dig in as Somalia war fears grow|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=Reuters|year=2006|author=Hassan Yare|format=html|language=English}}</ref> or the '''Supreme Council of Islamic Courts''' ('''SCIC''')<ref name="eu">{{Cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2006-12/16/content_5497181.htm|title=EU concerned about risk of war in Somalia|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=www.chinaview.cn |year=2006|author=www.chinaview.cn |language=English}}</ref> and Western media often refer to the group as the '''[[Somali people|Somali]] [[Islamism|Islamists]]'''. Until the end of 2006, they controlled most of southern Somalia and the vast majority of its population, including most major cities such as [[Jowhar]], [[Kismayo]], [[Beledweyne]], and the capital [[Mogadishu]]. The ICU was supported by warlord Yusuf "Indho Ade" Mohamed Siad who ruled Lower Shabelle but later became defense chief of the ICU, who aided in the defeat of the Mogadishu warlords.<ref>[http://www.somalinet.com/news/world/Somalia/15501 Warlord Yusuf "Indho Ade" Mohamed Siad, defense cheif of the ICU]</ref> Only the Northern regions ([[Puntland]], [[Somaliland]]), and the furthest interior regions of the south were outside their control. In [[December]] [[2006]], the ICU lost much territory after defeats at the battles of [[Battle of Baidoa|Baidoa]], [[Battle of Bandiradley|Bandiradley]], and [[Battle of Beledweyne|Beledweyne]], retreating to the capital, [[Mogadishu]]. On December 28 they abandoned Mogadishu, leaving the city in chaos while they moved south towards [[Kismayo]], which allowed the TFG and [[Ethiopia]]n troops to take over the city.<!-- INVALID URL <ref name=MOGADISHU-FALLS-TO-ETHIOPIAN-BACKED-GOVERNMENT-TROOPS>[http://www.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/africa/12/28/somalia.reut/index.html Mogadishu falls to Ethiopian-backed government troops] CNN</ref> --> After a stand at the [[Battle of Jilib]], the ICU abandoned the city of [[Kismayo]] on [[January 1]], [[2007]]. Stripped of almost all their territory, it is speculated the ICU will pursue [[guerrilla]]-style warfare against the government.<ref name="voa">{{Cite web|url=http://voanews.com/english/2007-01-01-voa8.cfm|title=Somalia's Islamic Courts Fighters Abandon Kismayo|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=newsVOA.com|year=2007|author=Alisha Ryu |language=English}}</ref> ==History== {{main|Rise of the Islamic Courts Union (2006)}} ===Before the second battle of Mogadishu=== {{see also|Anarchy in Somalia}} After the collapse of the Somali government in 1991, a system of ''[[sharia]]''-based Islamic courts became the main [[judicial system]], funded through fees paid by litigants. Over time the courts began to offer other services such as [[education]] and [[health care]]. The courts also acted as local police forces, being paid by local businesses to reduce crime. The Islamic courts took on the responsibility for halting robberies and [[illegal drugs|drug]]-dealing, as well as stopping the showing of what it claims to be [[pornography|pornographic]] films in local movie houses. Somalia is almost entirely Muslim, and these institutions initially had wide public support. The early years of the courts include such outfits as Sheikh Ali Dheere's, established in north Mogadishu in 1994 and the Beled Weyene court initiated in 1996. They soon saw the sense in working together through a joint committee to promote security. This move was initiated by four of the courts - Ifka Halan, Circolo, Warshadda and Hararyaale - who formed a committee to co-ordinate their affairs, to exchange criminals from different clans and to integrate security forces. In 1999 the group began to assert its authority. Supporters of the Islamic courts and other institutions united to form the ICU, an armed [[militia]]. In April of that year they took control of the main market in Mogadishu and, in July, captured the road from Mogadishu to [[Afgoi]].<ref name="CSMonitor 1999">{{Cite web|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/1999/0713/p1s2.html|title=Islamic Clerics Combat Lawlessness in Somalia|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=The Christian Science Monitor|year=1999|author=Lara Santoro,|language=English}}</ref> Their system of government, controlled by judges, is known as a [[krytocracy]]. ===Eritrean assistance=== {{copyedit|date=April 2008}} According to the United Nations and various sources, the Eritrean government started to arm and finance ICU for many years.<ref name="mail">{{Cite web|url=http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__africa/&articleid=278668|title=Somalia: Islamists refuse talks, acknowledge Eritrea|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=Mail & Guardian/Reuters|year=2006|author=Reuters|language=English}}</ref> Along with Ethiopian rebels like OLF, according to a BBC 1999 report, Eritrea sent "shiploads" of arms to the ICU and other rebels in Southern Somalia. It is also reported that the Eritrean government sent "Eritrean advisers" and "engineers and mine-laying experts."<ref name="bbc1">{{Cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/07/99/battle_in_the_horn/399898.stm|title=The Somali connection|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=BBC|year=1999|author=Patrick Gilkes|language=English}}</ref> After many denials from the Eritrean side, the deadlock ended when the Islamic Courts Union leader Aweys admitted that the Eritrean government has been assisting ICU<ref name="mail" /> although no mention of troops or advisers was made. After the Somali transitional government defeated the Islamists and took Mogadishu, the Somali Prime Minister alleged Eritrean soldiers were captured in Mogadishu.<ref name="mail2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__africa/&articleid=294811|title=Somalia says captured foreign pro-Islamist fighters|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=Mail & Guardian/Reuters|year=2007|author=Reuters|language=English}}</ref> Additional Eritrean fighters were allegedly killed by Somali security officers in June 2007.<ref name="ap1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/03/AR2007060300282.html?hpid=topnews|title=8 Militants Killed in Somali Fighting|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=Washingtom Post.com / Associated Press|year=2007|author=Salad Duhul|language=English}}</ref> A governor of one of Somalia's southern districts further confirmed the continued alliance of Eritrean fighters{{Dubious|date=March 2008}} with Al-Qaeda & ICU militants.<ref name="garow1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.garoweonline.com/artman2/publish/Somalia_27/Islamist_supporters_al-Qaeda_terrorists_attacked_us_Somalia_governor.shtml|title=Islamist supporters, al-Qaeda terrorists attacked us: Somalia governor|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=Garowe Online|year=2007|author=Garowe Online|language=English}}</ref> According to [[Los Angeles Times]], various ICU fighters were caught before they tried to escape to Eritrea.<!-- INVALID URL <ref>[http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-fg-somalia4jun04,1,4384400.story?coll=la-news-a_section&ctrack=1&cset=true jihadists killed and some captured before they escaped to Eritrea]</ref>--> Many of the ICU leadership and jihadist leaders are believed to have found refuge in Eritrea. ====Other Foreign fighters==== Various foreign fighters were said to be helping the ICU. Particularly since suicide bombing tactics are not common even among extremist Somali muslims, the rise of self-sacrificing bombers indicated deeper foreign jihadist assistance.{{Fact|date=September 2007}}<!-- Invalid URL <ref>[http://www.startribune.com/722/story/1205535.html Jihadists and suicide bombers]</ref> --> In January, Somalia said they defeated as well as arrested many Arab fighters.<ref name="mail3">{{Cite web|url=http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__africa/&articleid=294811|title=Somalia says captured foreign pro-Islamist fighters|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=Mail & Guardian/Reuters|year=2007|author=Reuters|language=English}}</ref> Also in June, many foreign pro-ICU fighters were trying to run away by boats when they were detected in the Puntland region. The governor of the region told the media that the Islamist fighters arrived to cause trouble and assured that the Puntland troops were searching for them.<ref>[http://www.voanews.com/english/2007-06-01-voa43.cfm Puntland adminstration detected Arab fighters in the coastal area]</ref> The U.S. military also targeted more jihadist and Al-Queda cells, particularly the bombers of U.S. embassy in Kenya.<ref name="wnbc">{{Cite web|url=http://www.wnbc.com/news/13430557/detail.html|title=U.S. Military Strikes al-Qaida Cells In Somalia|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=WNBC.com|year=2007|author=WNBC.com|language=English}}</ref> According to BBC, the Pentagon said a high level Al-Qaeda member from the Islamic Courts Union (ICU) was captured in Somalia and transferred to the US military prison in Guantanamo Bay.<ref name="bbc2">{{Cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/6729015.stm|title='Al-Qaeda' arrest in East Africa|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=BBC News|year=2007|author=BBC|language=English}}</ref><ref name="KNX">{{Cite web|url=http://www.knx1070.com/pages/551987.php?contentType=4&contentId=584302|title=Pentagon Holds Suspected al-Qaida Member Captured in E. Africa|accessyear=2007|accessmonthday=September 9|publisher=KNX 1070 News/Associated Press|year=2007|author=Associated Press|language=English}}</ref> ===After conquering Mogadishu=== {{main|Second Battle of Mogadishu|Rise of the Islamic Courts Union (2006)}} [[Image:Somalia Islamic Courts Flag.svg|left|150px|thumb|Flag used by Al-Shabab]] In the year 2000, the courts formed a union of Islamic courts, partly to consolidate resources and power and partly to aid in handing down decisions across, rather than within, clan lines.<ref name="Online NewsHour">Kristina Nwazota, [http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/africa/jan-june06/somalia_06-08.html Islamist Control of Mogadishu Raises Concern of Extremist Future for Somalia], ''[[Online NewsHour]]'', [[June 8]] [[2006]]</ref> Yet the ICU remained firmly established in the [[Hawiye]] clan.<ref name=US-ATTACKS-MAY-HAVE-KILLED-CANADIANS-IN-SOMALIA>{{cite news |title=U.S. attacks may have killed Canadians in Somalia |publisher=[[Candaian Press]] |url=http://www.canada.com/topics/news/world/story.html?id=0f42729c-c9a0-4000-8b26-6f2b1a321fb9&k=87889 |date=[[2007-01-09]] |accessdate=2007-01-09 }}</ref> As the courts began to assert themselves as the dispensers of justice they came into conflict with the [[secular]] [[warlord]]s who controlled most of the city. In reaction to the growing power of the ICU, a group of Mogadishu warlords formed the [[Alliance for the Restoration of Peace and Counter-Terrorism]] (ARPCT). This was a major change, as these warlords had been fighting each other for many years. By the beginning of 2006, these two groups had clashed repeatedly, and in May 2006 it escalated into [[Second Battle of Mogadishu|street fighting in the capital]], claiming the lives of more than 300 people. On [[5 June]] [[2006]], the ICU claimed that they were in control of Mogadishu.<ref name="NYTimes take control">Lacey, Mark, [http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/06/05/africa/web.0605mogadishu.php Islamic militias take control of Somali capital], ''[[The New York Times]]'', [[5 June]] [[2006]]</ref> Meanwhile, in the [[United States]] the [[George W. Bush|Bush]] [[George W. Bush administration|administration]] neither confirmed nor denied support for either side. However, it was reported that American officials had anonymously confirmed that the U.S. government was funding the ARPCT, due to concerns that the ICU is linked to [[al-Qaeda]] and is sheltering three al-Qaeda leaders involved in past terror attacks, including the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombings in [[Kenya]] and [[Tanzania]].<ref name="NYTimes warlords run">Lacey, Mark, [http://www.nytimes.com/2006/06/06/world/africa/06somalia.html Somali Islamists Declare Victory; Warlords on Run], ''New York Times'', 6 June 2006</ref> On [[6 June]] [[2006]] the ICU further claimed it was in control of all the lands up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) inland from Mogadishu. The warlords were reported to have either been captured or to have fled the city, abandoning most of their weapons, with the majority fleeing to [[Jowhar]], which was taken by the ICU militia on [[14 June]].<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/5078534.stm Somali Islamists capture key town], ''[[BBC News]]'', [[13 June]] [[2006]]</ref> This brought the ICU in control of much of the weaponry in the country, which made a resurgence by the warlords difficult without outside support. The ICU also controlled significant territory outside the capital, including the important town of [[Balad, Somalia|Balad]]. In mid-August, ICU militiamen swept into the port town of [[Hobyo]], 500 kilometers north of Mogadishu, meeting no opposition.<ref>[http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__africa/&articleid=280964 Somali Islamists seize key port] ''South African Mail and Guardian'', 16 August 2006</ref> The ICU organized a clean-up campaign for the streets of Mogadishu on [[20 July]]. This was the first time litter and rubbish had been collected in the entire city since it collapsed into chaos over a decade earlier.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/5198338.stm Ethiopian troops on Somali soil], ''BBC News'', 20 July 2006</ref> On [[July 15]] [[2006]], the Islamic Courts reopened Mogadishu international airport, which had been closed since the withdrawal of the international forces in 1995. The first airplane chartered by the [[Arab League]] flew from the airport for the first time in 11 years picking up Islamic Courts delegates to the Sudanese capital of [[Khartoum]].<ref name="Somalinet">Mohamed Abdi Farah, [http://www.somalinet.com/news/world/English/3290 Somalia: Reopening of Mogadishu's airport welcomed], ''[[Somalinet]]'', [[July 15]] [[2006]]</ref> On [[August 15]] [[2006]], the ICU captured Haradhere, some 500km northeast of Mogadishu, which had become a safe haven for pirates, who had forced shipping firms and international organisations to pay large ransoms for the release of vessels and crews.<ref name="IRIN"> [http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=55122&SelectRegion=Horn_of_Africa&SelectCountry=SOMALIA SOMALIA: Transitional govt, Islamic courts agree to talks], ''[[IRIN]]'', [[August 15]] [[2006]]</ref> On [[August 25]], [[2006]] the Islamic Courts reopened the historic Mogadishu seaport, which had been one of the busiest in [[East Africa]] but had been shut down for the prior 10 years.<ref name="BBC"> [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/5279414.stm First ship arrives in Mogadishu], ''[[BBC]]'', [[August 25]] [[2006]]</ref> On [[October 5]], [[2006]] the Islamic Courts declared the formation of the supreme Islamic Sharia court of Banadir province, ending all tribal Islamic Courts in the capital.<ref name="Somalinet3">Mohamed Abdi Farah, [http://www.somalinet.com/news/world/English/4145 Somalia: Islamists set up central Islamic court in the capital], ''[[Somalinet]]'', [[October 2]] [[2006]]</ref> === War with Ethiopia === {{main|War in Somalia (2006–present)}} On [[December 8]], 2006, the Islamic Courts Union claimed to have been involved in heavy fighting with Somali transitional government forces, backed by Ethiopian troops. On [[December 21]], heavy fighting erupted between ICU forces and Ethiopian-backed forces. The battles happened initially in two areas - the military base of Daynuunay and the military base of Iidale. The ICU made calls for [[jihad]] against Ethiopia,<ref name=SOMALI-HARDLINER-CALLS-FOR-FOREIGN-JIHADISTS>[http://observer.guardian.co.uk/world/story/0,,1978424,00.html Somali hardliner calls for foreign jihadists]</ref> which were met by international [[mujahideen]] volunteers arriving in Somalia. The ICU lost a considerable amount of territory after defeats at the [[December 20]] - [[December 26|26]] battles of [[Battle of Baidoa|Baidoa]], Bay region, [[Battle of Bandiradley|Bandiradley]], in Mudug, and [[Battle of Beledweyne|Beledweyne]], Hiran region, retreating to the capital, [[Mogadishu]]. ===Resignation of leadership=== {{main|Fall of Mogadishu}} On [[December 27]], 2006, after a brief skirmish earlier in the day at the [[Battle of Jowhar]], the leaders of the ICU, including Sheiks [[Hassan Dahir Aweys]], [[Sharif Sheikh Ahmed]] and [[Abdirahman Janaqow]] resigned in a capitulation recognizing the new state of affairs in Somalia. They issued the following decisions: <blockquote>1. It is national duty to protect the sovereignty and the integrity of Somalia and its people. <br/> 2. The ICU allows that Somalis should have the option to determine their future and would be ready for taking over the responsibility. <br/> 3. The Islamic Courts Union agreed not to allow anyone to create violence in Mogadishu and anybody that is found guilty would be brought before the law and would be taken for the suitable punishment according to the Islamic Sharia. <br/> 4. The ICU fighters are responsible for establishing the security and stability in the Somalian capital Mogadishu. <br/> 5. Lastly, the ICU is calling on all the Islamic fighters in Somalia, where ever they may be, to maintain security and stability in their localities and get ready in the police stations and other security installations.<ref name=SOMALIA-ICU-LEADERS-RESIGN-AS_ETHIOPIAN-ARMY-NEARS-CAPITAL>[http://somalinet.com/news/world/Somalia/6223 Somalia: ICU leaders resign as Ethiopian army nears the capital] SomaliNet</ref></blockquote> On [[December 28]], the ICU [[Fall of Mogadishu|withdrew from the capital]]. Somali Prime Minister Ali Mohamad Gedi stated the legislature would shortly declare a period of martial law. ===Pursuit of the ICU=== {{main|Battle of Jilib|Fall of Kismayo|Battle of Ras Kamboni}} After abandoning control of Mogadishu, leaders from the ICU proceeded to [[War in Somalia (2006–present)#Control of the Juba Valley|fortify the Jubba River valley area]] including the towns of [[Jilib]] and [[Kismayo]]. Days later, on December 31 Ethiopian and Somali forces [[Battle of Jilib|attacked Jilib]], after which the Islamists [[Fall of Kismayo|abandoned Kismayo]]. In [[January 2007]], as the ICU retreated, its leaders vowed to wage guerrilla war. They were pursued to [[Ras Kamboni]], where they were [[Battle of Ras Kamboni|militarily engaged]] by Ethiopian and Somali TFG forces. Kenyan and US forces enforced a border patrol and naval blockade, followed by US airstrikes against suspected [[Al Qaeda]] members embedded within the ICU militias.<ref name=TERROR-WAR-EXPANDING-TO-SOMALIA>{{cite news |title=Terror war expanding to Somalia? |publisher=[[Associated Press]] |date=[[2007-01-09]] |url=http://www.courierpostonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070109/NEWS01/70109009/1006 |accessdate=2007-01-09}}</ref> On [[January 10]], a report by Somali presidential chief of staff, [[Abdirizak Hassan]] stated the US airstrikes had killed Al Qaeda member [[Fazul Abdullah Mohammed]], and leaders of the Islamic Courts Union including [[Abduallahi Moalim Ali]] (former chief of security for Mogadishu), [[Abdirahman Janaqow]], and a third unidentified person. The bodies had reportedly been recovered by Ethiopian military personnel.<ref name=SOMALIA-ATTACK-NOT-THE-END>{{cite news |title=Pentagon says Somalia attack not the end |url=http://www.registerguard.com/news/2007/01/10/a1.somalia.0110.p1.php?section=nation_world |date=[[2007-01-10]] |accessdate=2007-01-10}}</ref> [[Fazul Abdullah Mohammed]] was later confirmed by US forces to have survived the US air raid on [[8 January]], [[2007]]. ===Islamist insurgency=== [[Image:Somalia map states regions districts.png|thumb|right|300px|Situation in Somalia May 18th]] {{main|Islamist insurgency in Somalia (2007–present)|Popular Resistance Movement in the Land of the Two Migrations}} After their fall from power, many Islamist militiamen went into hiding. Many attacks were carried out against Ethiopian and TFG troops, and the group was reformed as the [[Popular Resistance Movement in the Land of the Two Migrations]] (PRM). == Structure and composition == ===Background=== '''Current Event:''' ''The ICU has undergone dramatic and rapid changes. Given their loss of control over Mogadishu and much of the rest of the country, this section may refer to the organization in the past tense. This reflects how the courts were run prior to their retreat from Mogadishu. However, the ICU is still an existing organization. The status of their leaders and their present organization may be subject to change and speculation.'' The ICU is a union of [[Sharia law]] courts. These courts formed out of the chaos of the 1990s to administer justice in the districts in which they were established. Due to the chaos in Somalia, each court maintained a large militia to act as both police force and military. In [[February 2006]], 11 of these courts chose to pool their military resources in order to take over Mogadishu. (See [[Second Battle of Mogadishu]]) [[Image:Icu somalia map.png|400px|thumb|right|Map showing the ICU at the peak of its influence]] Each member of the ICU is a Sharia judge in charge of a specified court in a particular district of Somalia, and it is up to him to determine how Sharia law is enforced. These interpretations can either be very literal or very broad, with various [[Hadiths]] being either regarded or disregarded, and correspondingly has led to varying levels of liberty and repression. Some courts do not enforce beyond what the [[Quran]] requires; others have beaten people for watching [[bollywood]] and western movies or playing "licentious" music. One famous allegation that was cited numerous times, yet was denied by the ICU, was that there was a ban on the viewing of football (soccer) matches.<ref name="ICU_DENIES_BANNING_FOOTBALL">[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/5069556.stm World Cup ban in Mogadishu denied] BBC News</ref> In order to organize the courts into a more coherent organization, rather than a like-minded collection of independent judges, a "Supreme Islamic Court of Banadir" was created, with the most senior judges forming this high court. This court dealt with wide issues, as well as foreign relations, and commanded the ICU military forces as a whole. The chairman of the Supreme Islamic Court is [[Sharif Sheikh Ahmed]]. A consultative [[Shura]] council chaired by Sheikh [[Hassan Aweys]] approved the decisions made by the Supreme Islamic Court, and therefore was called the "real power" in the ICU, though the Shura could not act unilaterally. In simplistic terms, this made Ahmed the "President" of the ICU and Aweys the "Prime Minister". When Ahmed was otherwise indisposed (visiting a foreign country, ill, etc.) Sheikh [[Abdirahman Janaqow]] was the Acting Chairman. Below the Supreme Council and Shura Council are the regional courts spread throughout the country, which govern over the day to day issues of justice and law. These courts have enormous independence, and so the laws and regulations in ICU territory can vary wildly from town to town based on the particular moderation or radicalism of the local court. ICU Chairman Sharif Sheikh Ahmed is seen as a moderate and repeatedly declared the objective of the ICU was the restoration of order after 15 years of violence. However, of the eleven courts composing the Union, two had reputations as radical. One was led by Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys, who is on the U.S. list of terrorism suspects as the former head of the [[al-Itihaad al-Islamiya]] (AIAI) group. Western diplomats are also concerned by a second leader, [[Adan Hashi Ayro]], who was trained in [[Afghanistan]] and whose militia has been implicated in the deaths of five foreign aid workers and a [[BBC]] producer. Suspects from the [[1998 U.S. embassy bombings]] are believed to be hiding in Somalia, and to be aided by the ICU [http://www.kxma.com/getARticle.asp?ArticleId=11083][http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/181_1856298,00050006.htm]. There were also been reports of foreign [[mujahideen]] fighting alongside the ICU. In response, the U.S. provided funding for the [[ARPCT|secular warlord alliance]] due to these fears. However, Somalia has little history of radical Islam and the ICU had not embraced the most extreme forms of Islamic law, such as [[amputation]] of thieves' hands.<ref name="CSMonitor 1999">Santoro, Lara, [http://csmonitor.com/cgi-bin/durableRedirect.pl?/durable/1999/07/13/text/p1s2.html Islamic clerics combat lawlessness in Somalia], ''Christian Science Monitor'', 13 July 1999</ref> ===Hizbul Shabaab=== The [[Hizbul Shabaab]], also known as Al-Shabaab, or simply as "Shabaab", is the Youth Wing of the ICU. It is a radical and somewhat independent organization under the ICU umbrella which is integrated quite tightly with the ICU armed forces, acting as a sort of "special forces" for the ICU. The Shabab has caused difficulties for the ICU in maintaining a good international image on a number of occasions due to their hot-headedness and zealousness, such as abducting critical journalists, harassing overly-hip youngsters, and most infamously, murdering wounded [[Juba Valley Alliance|JVA]] soldiers in a [[Bu'aale]] hospital.<ref name="BUALE_HOSPITAL_MURDERS">[http://somalinet.com/news/world/Somalia/4553 Sorry is not enough for barbaric killing in hospital beds] Somalinet</ref> The ICU formally apologized for each of the incidents, and attempted to make it clear that these actions did not reflect ICU policy. Nevertheless, these incidents gave their opponents excellent propaganda ammunition, and aided the global perception of the ICU being like the [[Taliban]]. === Relationship to other Somali powers === The major powers in Somalia included the [[Transitional Federal Government]], the [[Juba Valley Alliance]] (JVA) in the south, plus the autonomous [[Puntland]] in the northeast and self-declared independent [[Somaliland]] in the northwest. In the midst of the conflict, [[Galmudug]] was formed in direct response to stem the rise of the ICU. The ICU was opposed by all the other factions, except for Somaliland, which remained generally neutral throughout the conflict. As a result of the collapse of the warlords' power, the four warlord representatives in the transitional government were stripped of their cabinet posts. The transitional government is based in [[Baidoa]], 250 kilometers from Mogadishu. After the ICU victory in Mogadishu, the transitional government voted to request foreign peacekeepers from the [[African Union]] in a mission known as [[IGASOM]]. The African Union supports the transitional government, though it did not provide forces to defend it against the advances of the ICU. The ICU rejected the need for [[peacekeeper]]s, arguing Somalia needs aid, not more external troops. The Interim Prime Minister [[Ali Mohammed Ghedi]] stated he wished to meet with the ICU leaders.<ref>[http://somalinet.com/news/world/English/2888 Somalia: Islamic courts again warn of foreign troops in Somalia], ''SomaliNet News'', [[15 June]] 2006</ref> This resulted in the [[Treaty of Khartoum]] of [[5 September]] [[2006]], in which it was agreed the ICU and the Transitional Government would be merged; however, the ICU insisted on the precondition [[Ethiopia]]n troops would leave the country beforehand. Ethiopian forces did not withdraw, and the treaty agreement fell apart. The JVA was overrun in the south, and Kismayo was taken. The remaining JVA forces aligned themselves immediately with the TFG. In [[December 2006]]—[[January 2007]], as part of the TFG's army, they retook the lost territory of the south. In [[November 2006]] the Islamic Courts said Puntland's forces had carried out a pre-emptive strike against their fighters who were gathering on the edge of Puntland near [[Galinsoor]].<ref>[http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/3E2402B3-3CB2-49B9-8C93-C72E663D56CA.htm Islamic Courts clash with Puntland], ''Al Jazeera'', [[06 November]] [[2006]]</ref> The government of Puntland has vowed to resist any attack by the Islamic Courts.<ref>[http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/50831F87-04BD-4387-A55A-D8000B94D4AA.htm Puntland 'to fight Islamic courts'], ''Al Jazeera'', [[21 November]] [[2006]]</ref> Later, Puntland entered into combat with the ICU at the [[Battle of Bandiradley]], which expelled the ICU from the central interior. ===Individual Islamic Courts=== {{Expand-section|date=January 2007}} {| class="wikitable" width="100%" |- ! Court Name - Location ! Clan Representation ! Judge ! Ideology |- | Court of Banadir for Returning Forcefully Taken Fixed Assets | Various | 11 judges chaired by Dr. Omar Abdalla Ali | Various |- | Court for Verdict in Banadir | Various | 12 judges chaired by Abdirahman Hassan Omar | Various |- | Court of Banadir Province | Various | 12 judges chaired by Dr. Hussein Abdi Elmi | Various |- | Ifka Halan - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | [[Hassan Dahir 'Aweys']] | [[Salafi]] |- | Huruwa - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Suuq Xoolaha - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Karan - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Medina - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Towfiq - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | SiiSii - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | [[Sharif Sheikh Ahmad]] | [[Sufi]] |- | Harariyale - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Dabaqayn - Mogadishu, Banadir |Hawiye | ? | [[Salafi]] |- | Polytechnic - Mogadishu, Banadir | Reer Shabelle (Non-Somali Minority) | ? | ? |- | Gubta - Mogadishu, Banadir | ? | Abdalla Ali | [[Salafi]] |- | Yaqshid - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Tabuuk - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Al-Hudaa - Mogadishu, Banadir | Shiikhaal | ? | ? |- | Milk Factory - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | | |- | Al Bayaan - Mogadishu, Banadir | Rahanweyn, Mirifle, Digil-Mirifle | Mohamed Ibrahim Bilal | |- | Al-Furqan - Mogadishu, Banadir Hawiye | Mohamud Mohamed Jimale Warsame 'Agaweyne' | |- | Daynile - Mogadishu, Banadir | Hawiye | Hussein Janaqow | |- | Shiirkoole (Circolo) - Mogadishu, Banadir |Hawiye | Abdilkadir Ali Omar | [[Salafi]] |- | ? - Marka, Lower Shabelle |Hawiye | [[Yusuf Mohamed Siyaad 'Indha Adde']] | ? |- | Al-Cadaala - Laascanood, Sool |Darod | Shiikh Axmed Cabdulaahi Shanle | ? |- | ? - Balad, Upper Shabelle | Hawiye | Sheikh Yusuf Turhume | ? |- | ? - Wanlaweyn, Lower Shabelle | Digil-Mirifle | Mahad Mohammed | [[Liberal movements in Islam|Liberal]] |- | ? - Beletweyne, Hiraan | Hawiye | Farah Moallim Mohamud | ? (Qutubi?) |- | ? - Beletweyne, Hiraan | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | ? - Adado, Galgadud | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | Alfaruq - Jalalaqsi, Hiraan | Hawiye | Mohammed Rashid Ibrahim | ? (Banned smoking,) |- | ? - Afmadow, Lower Juba | Darod | ? | ? |- | ? - Jilib, Middle Juba | Dir | Mohamed Omar Mursal | ? |- | ? - Barawe, Lower Shabelle | Dir | ? | ? |- | ? - Jawil, Hiraan | Hawiye | ? | ? |- | ? - Buulo Barde, Hiraan | Hawiye | Hussein Barre Rage | [[Salafi]] |- | ? - Bur Hakaba, Bay | Digil-Mirifle | Mustafa Ali Mohammed | ? |- | ? - Bardhere, Gedo | Darod | ? | ? |- | ? - South Galcayo, Mudug (Galmudug) | Hawiye | Abdullahi Siad Qeyre | ? |- | ? - North Galcayo, Mudug (Puntland) | Darod | Ahmed Yusuf | ? |- | ? - Kismayo, Lower Jubba | Darod | [[Hassan Turki]] | [[Salafi]] |- | Imamu Shafici - Abudwaq, Galgadud | Darod | Ali Bashir | ? |} ===Suicide bombers=== While the Transitional Somali government was still in Baidoa, various suicide attacks were targeted against the ministers by the ICU. After the defeat of the Islamic Courts Union, some suicide bombers were mixed with the insurgency against the Somali government forces and AU forces. In early May 2007, an ICU suicide bomber was caught by the African Union forces stationed at the Mogadishu seaport.<ref>[http://somalinet.com/news/world/Somalia/10157 ICU suicide bomber captured]</ref> Another suicide bomber of the Islamic Courts Union also made a Martyr video tape adopting Al-Qaeda's tactics.<ref>[http://www.startribune.com/722/story/1205535.html Islamists in Somali use Al-Qaida tactics]</ref> <ref>[http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=10912&sectionid=3510205 a Somali Islamic insurgent create suicide video]</ref>The video showed a man praying from the Koran before bombing himself, exploding near Ethiopian troops and Somali government forces.<ref>[http://www.philly.com/philly/news/nation_world/7681862.html Islamist fighter bombing himself]</ref> Another suicide bomber striked the Somali PM's house killing around 5 people and wounding many in June, 2007.<ref>[http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L03310263.htm suicide bomber attacks PM's house]</ref> The Prime Minister was not harmed. In a sign of worsening conditions, a Somali Islamic leaders said "''jihad is all we need. There is no political process we can be involved in unless we get a government practicing Sharia. Our aim is to liberate our country from the Christian invaders and those who assist them, and I assure you that the holy war against them will not stop until the Islamic flag is raised."'' <ref>[http://www.garoweonline.com/artman2/publish/Somalia_27/Somali_Islamist_leader_vows_holy_war_against_Christian_invaders.shtml Islamist says more jihad and holy war is necessary]</ref> === Noted ICU leaders === *'''Sheikh [[Hassan Dahir Aweys]]''' is the head of the [[shura]] council of the ICU. Aweys is former leader of [[al-Itihaad al-Islamiya]] (AIAI). Since [[November 2001]], he has been named under [[Executive Order 13224]] as a supporter of terrorist activities. *'''Sheikh [[Sharif Sheikh Ahmed]]''' is the leader of the ICU. Ahmed was born in [[Chabila]], Somalia and studied at [[Libyan]] and [[Sudan]]ese universities. He is from the Abgaal branch of the [[Hawiye]] clan. He has also worked as a secondary school teacher of geography, [[Arabic language|Arabic]], and religious studies. He speaks Arabic, Somali, and English. * '''Sheikh [[Hasan Hersi "Al-Turki"]]''' is formerly leader of [[Al-Itihaad al-Islamiya]] (AIAI); he goes by the name of "Al-Turki" or "The Turk". Since 2004, Hassan Al-Turki has been designated under US Presidential [[Executive Order 13224]] for terrorist financing.<ref name=DESIGNATION-OF-HASSAN-ABDULLAH-HERSI-AL-TURKI-EO-13224>[http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2004/33128.htm Designation of Hassan Abdullah Hersi al-Turki under Executive Order 13224] US Department of State</ref> * '''Sheikh [[Yusuf Siad Inda'ade]]''' (or '''Inda Ade''') served as deputy and financier for Hasan Dahir Aweys. He had been the chief of security of the Islamic Courts.<ref name=SOMALI-HARDLINER-CALLS-FOR-FOREIGN-JIHADISTS>[http://observer.guardian.co.uk/world/story/0,,1978424,00.html Somali hardliner calls for foreign jihadists]</ref> He is controversial for the fact that he was a former warlord who occupied [[Shabeellaha Hoose|Lower Shabeele]] in 2003. He later allied himself with the Islamic Courts. The Islamic Courts advanced to central and south Somalia regions, including the Kismayo area, before Inda'ade pledged his support, giving them control of Lower Shabelle region.<ref name="Reuters 2006">[http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/CrisesArticle.aspx?storyId=L30863894&WTmodLoc=World-R5-Alertnet-2 Islamists extend authority in Somalia], ''Reuters '', 30 Sept 2006</ref> In December 2006, during the intense fighting with Ethiopia, he was not present and was on pilgrimage in [[Mecca]]. * '''Sheikh [[Mukhtar Robow]]''' who goes by the name of "Abu Mansur", was the deputy chief of security for the Islamic Courts. He had been credited with being instrumental in the victory of the [[Second Battle of Mogadishu]] against the [[Alliance for the Restoration of Peace and Counter-Terrorism|ARPCT]] ([[CIA]]-backed warlords). In December 2006, during the intense fighting with Ethiopia, he was not present and was in pilgrimage in Mecca. He was trained in Afghanistan and was recently named a commander for the Al-Shabab.<ref>[http://www.garoweonline.com/artman2/publish/Somalia_27/One_killed_as_Somali_Islamists_bring_in_Afghan-trained_commander.shtml Mukhtar Robow, Al shabab commander trained in Afghanistan]</ref> * '''Professor [[Ibrahim Hassan Addow]]''' (M.Ed, Ph.D) was the head of foreign affairs department for the ICU. He lived in the United States and worked as an administrator at [[American University]] in Washington, D.C., before returning to Somalia in 1999. He is the dean of [[Benadir University]] in Mogadishu and had respresented the Islamic courts in its negotiations with the Somali transitional government.<ref name="Seattle News"> Edmund Sanders, [http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/nationworld/2003305401_somalia15.html Islamists bring order to Somalia, but justice is far from uniform], ''Seattle Times'', October 15, 2006</ref> *'''Sheikh [[Fuad Mohamed Qalaf]]''' was the head of the department of youth and education in the ICU. He lived in [[Sweden]] for ten years and was an imam at a mosque in [[Stockholm]] before returning to Somalia in 2006.<ref>{{cite news|first=Mohamed Abdi|last=Farah|title=Somalia: abroad Somali communities urged to return home for Jihad|url=http://somalinet.com/news/world/English/4203|publisher=SomaliNet|date=2005-10-11|accessdate=2006-12-27}}</ref> == Social policies == The Islamic Courts' original mission was to bring social justice and combat iniquity. However, after capturing Mogadishu, its mission transformed into imposing Sharia law all over Somalia and changing the constitution. In the year [[2000]], the courts formed a union of Islamic courts, partly to consolidate resources and power and partly to aid in handing down decisions across, rather than within, clan lines.<ref name="Online NewsHour">Kristina Nwazota, [http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/africa/jan-june06/somalia_06-08.html Islamist Control of Mogadishu Raises Concern of Extremist Future for Somalia], ''[[Online NewsHour]]'', [[June 8]] [[2006]]</ref> In an interview featured in the [[BBC Online]] Somali section in [[June 2006]], Sheik Sharif Shaykh Ahmed said "the union of Islamic courts was established to ensure that Somali people suffering for 15 years would gain peace and full justice and freedom from the anarchic rule of warlords who refuted their people to no direction." After capturing Mogadishu, the Islamic Courts had enacted a series of decrees and laws that had temporarily brought hope for Somali expatriates, local minorities and women. * On [[October 5]], [[2006]] the Islamic Courts had declared the formation of the supreme Islamic Sharia court of Banadir province. The announcement ceremony was attended by all Islamic officials; both consultative and executive councils, intellectuals and civil society members and took place in the former Somalian presidential palace in central Mogadishu. That announcement from the central Islamic Court was destined to end all tribal Islamic Courts in the capital.<ref name="Somalinet3">Mohamed Abdi Farah, [http://www.somalinet.com/news/world/English/4145 Somalia: Islamists set up central Islamic court in the capital], ''[[Somalinet]]'', [[October 2]] [[2006]]</ref> * On [[November 17]] [[2006]], the ICU had banned the use, sale and transportation of ''[[khat]]'' altogether and the Islamic Court of Kismayo banned the sale of cigarettes. This was a controversial move as it was the main source of income for many war widows and orphans and a huge import-export business. * Took control of Somali waters under their control and indigenously ended Piracy during their 6 month Reign<ref>http://www.hiiraan.com/comments2-news-2007-oct-piracy_off_somalia_s_coast_increases.aspx "Associated Press, October 17 2007"</ref> =="Greater Somalia"== The Islamic Courts Union (ICU) supported the idea of annexing territories controlled by Kenya and Ethiopia. The leader of the ICU, Sheik Hassan Dahir Aweys, said the land of ethnic Somalis living in Kenya and Ethiopia should be incorporated with Somalia, the old ideology of "Greater Somalia." He said "''We will leave no stone unturned to integrate our Somali brothers in Kenya and Ethiopia." <ref>[http://www.newspress.com/Top/Article/article.jsp?Section=WORLD&ID=564842767252324414 ICU plans to take over Ethiopian and Kenyan territories]</ref> Ethiopia and Kenya have historically resisted such Somali attempts before. While most African countries are made up of multi-ethnic societies, Somalia has been a rare exception where one ethnicity makes up almost 100% of the population. The Islamist leader said his group will "gain back the Somali provinces forcefully annexed to Ethiopia and Kenya." <ref>[http://www.shabelle.net/news/ne1725.htm islamists plans to take the Somali provinces "forcefully annexed to Ethiopia and Kenya"]</ref> == Alleged military support to the ICU == In November 2006, a UN arms monitoring group released information that all groups in Somalia were given logistical support by a dozen countries.<ref name=REPORT-MONITORING-GROUP-ON-SOMALIA-UNSC-RES-1676> {{cite web | title =Report of the Monitoring Group on Somalia pursuant to Security Council resolution 1676 (2006) | date =[[November 2006]] | url =http://www.cfr.org/publication/12021/ | format =Microsoft Word Doc | accessdate =2006-01-05 }}</ref> Those countries claimed those allegations. These are the allegations documented by the UN monitoring group: *{{flagcountry|Djibouti}}: According to that report, the government of Djibouti has provided military uniforms and medicines in support of the Islamic Courts Union (ICU). On [[July 30]], 2006, a [[Djibouti Airlines]] aircraft landed at an airport in Mogadishu with medicines and military uniforms intended for ICU. The true nature of the cargo was disguised, and it was presented as being from the [[Red Crescent Society]] of Djibouti to conceal its origins. After the cargo was unloaded, the aircraft proceeded to Mogadishu's main airport. *{{flagcountry|Egypt}}: The government has allegedly provided training in support of ICU. On [[July 26]], 2006, a meeting took place in Mogadishu between officials from ICU and visiting Libyan, Egyptian and Eritrean senior military officers at the residence of ICU finance chief Abdulkadir Abukar Omar Adani. According to the report, the meeting resolved that military training be provided to about 3,800 fighters at the Hilweyne military barracks, near Bal'ad town, north of Mogadishu. *{{flagcountry|Eritrea}}: The Eritrean government "Allegedly" provided at least 28 separate consignments of arms, ammunition and military equipment. It also gave troops and training to the Islamic Courts Union. On April 26, 2006, a shipment of arms destined for ICU consisting of [[AK-47]] assault rifles, [[PKM]] machine-guns, [[RPG-7]]s and ammunition arrived on a dhow at the seaport of El Ma'an. On May 6, 2006, an Eritrean Antonov military aircraft landed at Dhusamareeb in the Galgaduud region of Somalia. Awaiting the landing were about 75 people, five lorries and two Land Cruisers. The aircraft carried anti-aircraft guns which were loaded onto the lorries. On May 9, 2006, a dhow arrived at the El Ahmed seaport, and on board were fighters from Pakistan and the [[Oromo Liberation Front]] of Ethiopia. The fighters remained on the dhow. Five of the 75 people associated with the receipt of the anti-aircraft guns on May 6, 2006, boarded the dhow, along with some of anti-aircraft guns. ICU member [[Aden Hashi Farah "Eyrow"]], one of the leaders of the Hizbul Shabaab (youth movement), took possession of the arms and military uniforms. This information was given from The American Government whom have very poor relations with Eritrea. On An interview with the [[Riz Khan]] Aljezerra talk show, Eritreas government claimed that these accusations are based on false assumptions *[[Image:Flag of Hezbollah.svg|20px]] [[Hezbollah]]: The Hezbollah movement has been reported to provide military training to ICU and has made arrangements with other states on behalf of ICU for the latter to receive arms. In mid-July 2006, ICU apparently sent about 720 men to Lebanon to [[2006 Israel-Lebanon conflict|fight alongside Hezbollah]] against the [[IDF|Israeli military]]. The Somali force was personally selected by ICU's [[Hizbul Shabaab]] (youth movement) leader [[Aden Hashi Farah]] "Eyrow." One of the selection criteria was an individual's combat experience, which might include experience in [[Afghanistan]]. In exchange for the contribution of the Somali military force, Hezbollah arranged for additional support to be given to ICU by the governments of Iran and [[Syria]]. *{{flagcountry|Iran}}: The UN monitoring group stated that Iran has provided at least three consignments of arms and ammunition and medical supplies and the services of three medical doctors to ICU. On [[July 25]], 2006, an aircraft containing a shipment of arms arrived at the Baledogle airport and was met by ICU head of the security affairs, [[Sheikh Yusuf Mohamed Siyaad]] "Indohaadde," and the chairman of the [[Dayniile]] Islamic Court, [[Sheikh Hussein Janaqow]]. The UN monitoring team says that the arms shipment consisted of machine guns and [[M79 Grenade launcher|M79]] grenade launchers. On [[August 17]], 2006, a large dhow containing foods and arms destined for ICU arrived in El-Adde seaport, Mogadishu. The arms consisted of 80 man-portable, shoulder-fired, surface-to-air missiles and rocket launchers. *{{flagcountry|Libya}}: Furthermore, the UN monitoring report states that the Libyan government has sent military aircraft to Somalia and has provided training, funds and at least a consignment of arms in support of ICU. On July 24, 2006, a delegation of military officers arrived at the Baledogle airport and on July 26, 2006, participated in a meeting in Mogadishu with ICU officials and visiting Egyptian and Eritrean senior military officers at the house of ICU finance chief Abdulkadir Abukar Omar Adani. On [[July 31]], 2006, a vessel with arms and foods for ICU docked early in the morning at the seaport of El-Ma'an. *{{flagcountry|Saudi Arabia}}: Furthermore, the document states that Saudi Arabia has given logistical support in the form of foodstuff and medicines intended for use by the ICU. On [[June 11]], 2006, a [[C-130]] aircraft left Jazan for the Baledogle airport. But the government said the flight had taken place for "medical" reasons. On [[August 14]], 2006 , seven trucks containing logistical supplies, including foods and ammunition, left [[Mogadishu]] for an ICU location in the central regions of Somalia. Accompanying the convoy were 320 ICU fighters sent to reinforce fighters in the central regions. *{{flagcountry|Syria}}: On [[July 27]], 2006, 200 ICU fighters were transported by aircraft to Syria for training in [[guerrilla warfare]]. ==Alleged recruitment of Kenyan Muslims== On [[January 10]], [[2007]], Kenyan North Eastern Provincial Commissioner (PC), [[Kiritu Wamae]] revealed the circulation of an intelligence report with the names of up to 4,000 Kenyan Muslim youths who were induced to join the ranks of the Somali Islamic Courts Union's ''jihad'' by offers of $400. The majority of the youths were from Garissa district. Scores were killed in the fighting. Others now seeking to return to Kenya may face treason charges. Leaders of the Council of Imam and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslim (Supkem) voiced vehement objections to the PC's allegations, and threatened to hold protests in a week.<ref name=SCORES-OF-KENYAN-YOUTH-ARE-KILLED-IN-SOMALIA>{{cite news |title=Scores of Kenyan youth are killed in Somalia |publisher=[[East African Standard]] |url=http://www.eastandard.net/hm_news/news.php?articleid=1143963554 |date=[[2007-01-10]] |accessdate=2007-01-11 }}</ref> == Notes and references == <!-- This article uses [[Wikipedia:Footnotes]]. Please use this format when adding references to material in the article. External links added directly to this section will be swiftly deleted without notice. --> {{reflist|2}} {{War on Terrorism}} ==See also== *[[IGASOM|Peace Mission to Somalia]] == External links == * [http://www.pbs.org/newshour/indepth_coverage/africa/somalia/index.html Somalia's Struggle for Stability] Online NewsHour with Jim Lehrer * [http://www.cod.edu/people/faculty/yearman/somalia.htm Conoco-Somalia Declassification Project], Conoco-Somalia Declassification Project, 2006 * [http://www.ogrish.com/archives/violence_flares_in_somalia_May_28_2006.html Violence Flares in Somalia (VIDEO)], ogrish.com, updated [[28 May]] 2006 * [http://www.irinnews.org/film/ ''Somalia: a State of Need''], ''[[IRIN]]'' Film (18 min streaming video), December 2006 * [http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=3830&l=1 ''Somalia’s Islamists''], [[International Crisis Group]] Report, [[12 December]] [[2005]] * {{PDF|[http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/pdf/research/africa/bpsomalia0407.pdf "The Rise and Fall of Somalia's Islamic Courts]|270&nbsp;[[Kibibyte|KiB]]<!-- application/pdf, 276976 bytes -->}}, [[Chatham House]], April 2007 * [http://www.cfr.org/publication/13209/road_ahead.html?breadcrumb=%2Fregion%2F203%2Fhorn_of_africa "The Road Ahead: Violence and Reconciliation in Somalia" (podcast)] with Idd Beddel Mohamed, Somalia's deputy rep to the UN, and Somali scholar Abdi Samatar, hosted by the [[Council on Foreign Relations]], [[April 27]] [[2007]] {{States of Somalia}} {{IslamismNorthAfrica}} [[Category:Islamic organizations|Islamic Courts of Somalia]] [[Category:Rebel militia groups|Islamic Courts of Somalia]] [[Category:Rebellions in Africa|Islamic Courts of Somalia]] [[Category:Politics of Somalia|Islamic Courts of Somalia]] [[Category:Somali law]] [[Category:Religion in Somalia]] [[Category:1990s establishments|Islamic Courts of Somalia]] [[Category:National liberation movements|Supreme Islamic Courts Council]] [[Category:Islamist groups]] [[ar:اتحاد المحاكم الإسلامية]] [[da:Rådet af Islamiske Domstole]] [[de:Union islamischer Gerichte]] [[es:Unión de Cortes Islámicas]] [[fa:اتحادیه محاکم شریعت اسلامی سومالی]] [[fr:Union des tribunaux islamiques]] [[id:Uni Pengadilan Islam]] [[it:Unione delle Corti islamiche]] [[nl:Unie van Islamitische Rechtbanken]] [[ja:イスラム法廷会議]] [[no:Den islamistiske rettsunion]] [[pl:Unia Trybunałów Islamskich]] [[pt:Conselho Supremo das Cortes Islâmicas]] [[ru:Союз исламских судов]] [[sr:Унија исламских судова]] [[sh:Unija islamskih sudova]] [[fi:Islamilaisten oikeusistuinten liitto]] [[sv:Islamiska domstolarnas högsta råd]] [[zh:聯合伊斯蘭法庭]]