Mali Military Sites Attacked by Suspected Jihadists
Early Tuesday, coordinated attacks targeted seven military sites across western Mali, according to the Malian army. This resurgence of violence is part of a larger trend in the Sahel region.
Multiple Cities Under Attack
Residents reported intense gunfire in areas like Kayes, while local leaders confirmed attacks in Nioro, Gogui, and Sandare.
"This morning, we were shocked when we woke up. There's gunfire, and I can see smoke billowing towards the governor's residence from my house," one Kayes resident told AFP.
JNIM Suspected
While no group has claimed responsibility, the attacks share characteristics with those carried out by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), affiliated with al-Qaida.
Rising Violence in the Sahel
The attacks follow recent strikes claimed by Islamists, including a major assault on Timbuktu and a deadly raid resulting in the deaths of at least 30 soldiers. Jihadist attacks have also increased in Burkina Faso and Niger. The Malian military is closely monitoring the situation.
The Timbuktu Institute has warned of JNIM's intentions to expand its operations into Senegal and Mauritania.