Witnesses reported intense gunfire as attackers stormed the hotel following an explosion, leading to casualties among guests and security personnel.

Among the deceased were two traditional elders who were meeting to strategize against al-Shabaab's influence.

Initial reports indicated at least four fatalities, while witnesses claimed the death toll had risen to ten as the standoff continued.

Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the assault, asserting they had killed more than ten people during the siege.

The militant group has been engaged in a conflict with the Somali government for over 16 years, often targeting officials with bombings and assaults.

Beledweyne, located 335 kilometers north of Mogadishu, is strategically important in the fight against al-Shabab.

On March 12, 2025, Somali security forces successfully ended a 24-hour siege at the Cairo Hotel in Beledwyne, killing all militants involved.

Mayor Omar Alasow stated that six militants were killed during the siege, but the civilian death toll remains unclear, with estimates ranging from six to at least eleven.

The meeting at the hotel aimed to discuss strategies to counter al-Shabab's influence in the region, according to clan elder Abdullahi Fidow.

The hotel was targeted as it housed traditional elders and military officers who were coordinating the Somali government's offensive against the militant group al-Shabab.

Al-Shabab, affiliated with al-Qaida, frequently attacks government officials and military personnel in Somalia, maintaining control over parts of rural regions despite ongoing military efforts.

Local resident Muhsin Abdullahi confirmed several fatalities, including two prominent traditional elders, and reported that many injured individuals were hospitalized.