Islamist militants and separatists launched coordinated attacks in Mali’s capital and other cities on Saturday, marking one of the largest assaults in recent years. The militant group JNIM, affiliated with al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attacks on Bamako’s international airport and four other cities in central and northern Mali in collaboration with the Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg-led separatist group.
Mali has a history of dealing with insurgencies linked to al-Qaeda, the Islamic State group, and separatist movements in the north. The Malian army confirmed that armed terrorist groups targeted specific locations and barracks in Bamako, with soldiers actively engaging to neutralize the attackers. The situation was later reported to be under control.
Reports from Bamako indicated heavy weapons and automatic rifle fire near Modibo Keita International Airport, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center. The U.S. Embassy issued a security alert urging sheltering in place due to reports of explosions and gunfire in the area. Additionally, residents of Kati, a town near Bamako, experienced gunfire and explosions, with the residence of Mali’s defense minister sustaining significant damage.
Videos circulating on social media depicted militant convoys in trucks and motorcycles moving through deserted streets in Kati. Similar attacks were reported in Sevare and Mopti, while videos from Kidal and Gao showcased street exchanges of gunfire and deceased individuals. Insurgents reportedly gained control of neighborhoods in Kidal, leading to clashes with the army.
Azawad separatists have long sought independence in northern Mali, with Kidal serving as a former stronghold before government forces, aided by Russian mercenaries, took control in 2023. The recent events have reignited tensions in the region, with residents in Gao expressing fear over ongoing gunfire and explosions.
The assault in Mali is seen as a significant co-ordinated attack, resonating concerns as JNIM collaborated with Tuareg rebels, reminiscent of their joint actions in 2012. Mali, alongside Niger and Burkina Faso, faces continuous challenges from armed groups associated with al-Qaeda and ISIS. The security situation has deteriorated in recent times, prompting shifts in military alliances towards seeking support from Russia to combat Islamic militants.
In 2024, an al-Qaeda-linked group previously carried out an attack on Bamako’s airport and a military training camp, resulting in casualties.