 Dabageed was returned to power after the success of the Ethiopian-backed invasion of Hiran province, culminating in the Battle of Beledweyne, fought on December 24–25, 2006.After the battle, Yusuf Dabageed said, "We have taken control of Baladweyne and our forces are chasing the terrorists.We have killed more than 60 Islamists, wounded others and captured some as prisoners of war."