An attack in Mali’s capital, Bamako, has left at least 77 people dead and 200 injured, overwhelming hospitals. The military initially downplayed the incident, but later admitted casualties and captured suspects linked to the assault. The armed group responsible, JNIM, has claimed responsibility for the attack, targeting military bases and seizing control of the airport and surrounding area.
The attack is significant as high-profile assaults in Bamako are rare, with previous attacks mostly concentrated in northern and central Mali. The region has been plagued by violence from armed groups like JNIM and ISGS, leading to French and UN intervention. However, a military coup in 2020 and the departure of French forces in 2022 have shifted the dynamics, with Mali now turning to Russian Wagner forces for support.
Recent losses, including a significant attack by Tuareg rebels on Russian mercenaries, highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by Malian troops. The wider Sahel region, including Niger and Burkina Faso, is also struggling with increased violence from armed groups despite the presence of Russian forces. The three countries have formed the Alliance of Sahel States to combat the insurgency but continue to face deadly attacks.
The situation underscores the complex security landscape in the Sahel region, with shifting alliances and the presence of multiple armed groups. The international community, including the UN, has condemned the violence, but challenges remain in restoring stability and addressing the root causes of the conflict in Mali and its neighboring countries.
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