Mali Repels al-Qaeda Attacks Across Seven Regions, Kills 80 Militants

Seven Locations Targeted

The attacks occurred in seven towns and cities, including areas near the borders with Senegal and Mauritania. The targets were mainly army barracks in central and western Mali.

The jihadist group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), which is linked to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for what it described as “coordinated and high-quality operations” and alleged it had overrun three military positions. These claims have not been independently verified.

Curfew and Security Measures

Following the attacks, regional authorities in Kayes and Dioïla imposed a 30-day overnight curfew to prevent further infiltration and allow for intelligence-led operations.

Military officials emphasized that Malian forces remain in full control and are continuing clearance operations. The attacks reflect a growing trend of insurgents targeting army facilities in large-scale assaults, similar to those seen in neighboring Burkina Faso.

Background: Sahel Under Siege

Mali has been battling jihadist insurgencies since 2012. The country is currently ruled by a military junta that seized power in 2020. It continues to face threats from both al-Qaeda and ISIS-linked groups, as well as internal Tuareg rebellions in the north.