A car bomb exploded near a café in Mogadishu, Somalia, killing at least five people and injuring 20 others as they watched the Euro 2024 final, shattering months of relative peace in the city.

The explosion, which occurred as patrons watched the Euro 2024 final between Spain and England, highlights the persistent threat of violence in Mogadishu despite recent relative calm. Although no group has claimed responsibility, the attack bears the hallmarks of al-Shabab, an Islamic militant group often targeting the city. The blast not only caused significant casualties but also destroyed multiple vehicles and buildings, underscoring the enduring security challenges in Somalia amid ongoing government offensives against the extremists.

The bombing took place next to a café in Mogadishu, Somalia, where people had gathered to watch the Euro 2024 final live from Berlin, adding a layer of shock and despair to what was supposed to be an evening of sport and community.

Witnesses reported that a car loaded with explosives blew up close to the café, resulting in the deaths of at least five people. The explosion also injured at least 20 others, many of whom were present in the street at the time.

In the aftermath of the explosion, chaos ensued as frightened spectators tried to escape. Several people got injured while attempting to jump the perimeter wall of the café, and others sustained injuries in the ensuing stampede.

Photographs from the scene revealed extensive damage: burnt-out wreckage of vehicles, damaged buildings, and debris scattered around. The explosion demolished 10 cars and inflicted significant damage on nearby structures in the highly guarded area close to the Presidential Palace.

While Mogadishu had been experiencing a period of relative peace in recent months, this attack serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing instability in the region. It came just days after an attempted jailbreak at a Mogadishu prison where at least eight people were killed.

Frequent attacks by al-Shabab continue to disrupt the lives of many in Mogadishu and other parts of Somalia. Although it has not been confirmed who was responsible for this particular bombing, the incident mirrors previous attacks carried out by the militant group.

Under the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Somalia's government is currently engaged in a high-profile offensive against al-Shabab. The President has declared 'total war' against the extremists, who control large parts of central and southern Somalia.

Considered one of al-Qaida’s deadliest organizations by the United States, al-Shabab has been the target of numerous U.S. airstrikes in recent years. Despite these efforts, the group continues to execute attacks that claim scores of lives and cause significant destruction.

Responding swiftly to this latest incident, security forces cordoned off the area to conduct thorough investigations and ensure the safety of survivors and rescue workers. Emergency services worked diligently to provide medical attention to those injured and to clear the debris.

The lack of an immediate claim of responsibility leaves an unsettling ambiguity; however, the pattern of the attack reflects the modus operandi of al-Shabab, which frequently uses car bombs in densely populated areas to maximize casualties and spread terror.

In light of the bombing, Somali authorities are likely to intensify their efforts against al-Shabab, seeking to prevent further violence and to stabilize the country. The government’s current offensive aims to weaken the militants' hold and to reclaim control over territories.

As residents of Mogadishu mourn the loss of lives and the disruption of their peace, the incident emphasizes the dire need for sustained international and local efforts to combat militancy and promote stability in the region.

The international community has repeatedly called for increased support and coordination in efforts to fight terrorism in Somalia. Collaborative measures and strategic alliances are viewed as pivotal components for achieving long-term peace and security.