The US carried out an airstrike against al-Shabab militants in Galkayo, northern Somalia.

This is the first airstrike since President Joe Biden took office.

Defense Department Spokeswoman Cindi King said the US was supporting the Somali army that was under attack by the militants.

She said an assessment of the damage was still being done but initial reports were that no civilians were injured.

President Biden limited the use of drone strikes outside the US.

His predecessor Donald Trump had increased airstrikes in Somalia during his tenure. Just before he left office, he ordered that 700 Special Forces deployed to Somalia be withdrawn.

Somalia has battled insecurity because of attacks carried out by al-Shabab militants.