A brutal attack in Mali’s capital, Bamako, resulted in the deaths of 77 people and injuries to 200 others. Armed groups targeted military bases, with al-Qaeda-linked JNIM claiming responsibility. The attack was significant, as high-profile attacks in Bamako have been rare in recent years. Mali has been plagued by violence from various armed groups, leading to French and UN intervention in the past. However, recent developments saw the military government under Colonel Assimi Goita seize power and turn to Russian Wagner forces for support.
Despite efforts to counter armed groups, attacks have persisted, with major losses experienced by Malian troops, including a significant attack by Tuareg rebels in August. The wider region, including Niger and Burkina Faso, has also been affected by escalating violence despite military alliances formed and support from Russian forces. The situation has led to thousands of civilian casualties in the Liptako-Gourma region, prompting urgent action by the Alliance of Sahel States.
The region’s instability has forced the US military to exit Niger, with the country struggling to combat armed groups following the suspension of its agreement with the US. Burkina Faso, in particular, has seen a rise in attacks, with JNIM controlling two-thirds of its territory and a sharp increase in civilian casualties. The situation in Niger has worsened due to attacks by the ISIL affiliate. The escalating violence indicates a dire need for international support to address the growing threat posed by armed groups in the Sahel region.
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