The phrase “Hargeisa Holocaust,” also known as the Isaaq Genocide, refers to the systematic and state‑sponsored campaign of violence conducted by the Somali Democratic Republic under the dictatorship of Siad Barre in the late 1980s. It resulted in the destruction of Hargeisa, Somalia’s second‑largest city, and the mass killing and displacement of civilians, making it one of the most devastating but under recognized atrocities of the late 20th century.

Following the Ogaden War (1977–1978), Siad Barre’s regime grew increasingly authoritarian and suspicious of internal dissent. The Isaaq clan, concentrated in northern Somalia, became a primary target. In 1981, opposition figures formed the Somali National Movement (SNM), which intensified the regime’s repression.

The government imposed economic restrictions, curtailed movement, and detained Isaaq professionals. Over time, these measures escalated into widespread violence, laying the groundwork for the events that would culminate in 1988.

In May 1988, the SNM launched an offensive to seize Hargeisa and Burao. The government’s response was deliberately directed at civilians rather than solely at insurgents. Hargeisa was subjected to heavy artillery and sustained aerial bombardment. As much as 90% of the city was destroyed.

Airstrikes were conducted using fighter jets, some flown by foreign mercenary pilots. Residential neighborhoods were primary targets, and civilians were often trapped within........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)