On 14 October 2017, a truck bomb exploded in a busy intersection in the Medina district of Mogadishu, Somalia, resulting in one of the deadliest attacks in the country's history. The explosion occurred near several government buildings and a hotel, attracting large numbers of civilians who were unsuspecting victims. The vehicle packed with explosives detonated during peak hours, causing widespread panic and confusion among the populace. The scale of the explosion was cataclysmic, leading to substantial infrastructure damage and debris scattered across the surrounding area.

Reports indicated that more than 358 people were killed and over 400 were injured, many of whom were critically hurt. Locals described the sounds of the explosion as deafening, and the aftermath was marked by harrowing images of rescue efforts by civilians and emergency responders trying to locate survivors amid the wreckage. Hospitals in Mogadishu were quickly overwhelmed with the influx of casualties, highlighting the urgent need for medical assistance in the country, which has struggled with health care issues due to years of instability.

The attack was attributed to the militant group Al-Shabaab, which has been involved in various acts of violence as part of its campaign against the Somali government and foreign forces. Following the bombing, the Somali president Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud, also known as Farmajo, declared three days of national mourning. He condemned the attack, calling it an affront to humanity and underscoring the need for greater efforts in combatting terrorism in the region. The tragic loss of life is a stark reminder of the persistent insecurity plaguing Somalia and led to increased international scrutiny and support for peace and security efforts in the nation.