08.05.2026 18:14
In the West African country of Mali, attacks launched on April 25 by armed groups Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) against state forces have intensified. As the Malian army also launches counterattacks, images of clashes from the region have raised concerns about a "new war."
With the escalation of clashes that began on April 25 in northern Mali, separatist groups and armed organizations have captured the strategically important city of Kidal. Coordinated attacks on the capital Bamako and surrounding military bases have resulted in numerous casualties, including high-ranking officials. Footage from the region reveals weakening control in the country and a deepening security crisis.
MALI ARMY LAUNCHES COUNTEROFFENSIVE
As the Malian army initiates a large-scale counteroperation to reclaim lost territories, civilians are attempting to flee to safer areas. Despite support from Russian mercenaries, the extension of attacks to the vicinity of the capital has heightened international concerns of a "full-scale civil war." Although the government calls for calm, the shifting control of strategic points continues to keep tensions at a peak in the region.
SIMULTANEOUS ATTACKS IN MALI
In Mali, early on the morning of April 25, armed groups Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) launched coordinated joint attacks. Heavy gunfire, explosions, and clashes were reported in the capital Bamako at the Kati military base, the military camp around Modibo Keita International Airport, and in several cities including Kidal, Gao, and Sevare.
DEFENSE MINISTER KILLED
A suicide bomb attack was carried out on the home of Defense Minister Sadio Camara in Kati; Camara, injured in the attack, died at the hospital where he was taken. The FLA stated it had taken full control of the northern city of Kidal, and that mercenaries from the Russian Africa Corps and Malian soldiers had left the city under a reached agreement. Following the attacks, the Malian army announced that in a sweep operation, over 100 terrorists were neutralized in an air operation conducted in the Koulikoro region.