Mozambique's president says northern town under Islamist attack

President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique announced in a televised address that the country's army is engaged in a battle against Islamist insurgents who launched a significant attack on the town of Macomia in Cabo Delgado province on Friday morning. This province, known for its gas reserves, has been facing an insurgency by militants linked to the Islamic State since 2017, resulting in increased attacks despite heightened security efforts since January.

Nyusi reported that Macomia came under attack in the morning, with ongoing exchanges of fire. The militants initially withdrew after about 45 minutes but regrouped and returned. The attack is considered one of the most severe in recent times, with reports of numerous fighters involved and many residents fleeing the area.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional force, deployed in Mozambique since 2021, started withdrawing last month as its mandate concludes in July. Nyusi expressed hope for SADC's continued support during this transitional phase, although it remains uncertain if they are still present or engaged in the ongoing conflict.

Additionally, Rwanda has deployed troops to assist in combating the insurgency in Mozambique. This escalation coincides with efforts by oil companies like TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil, who are involved in major liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects in Cabo Delgado. TotalEnergies is seeking to resume a $20 billion LNG terminal halted in 2021, while ExxonMobil and Eni are advancing their own LNG project, citing improved security conditions.