In Somalia, intense fighting in the capital Mogadishu killed seven people today, as the transitional government continued an offensive against Islamist militants. Residents of the capital reported heavy weapons fire in the neighborhoods of Hodan, Howlwadag and Bondhere. At least 10 people were reported wounded. Officials said the battle was between the al-Qaida-linked group al-Shabab and government troops who are backed by African Union peacekeepers. Pro-government forces have made gains in recent weeks against al-Shabab, which has controlled large parts of Mogadishu since 2008. The government launched the offensive in February to retake territory throughout southern and central Somalia.