Al-Qaeda Affiliate Claims Responsibility for Attack Killing 200 Soldiers in Burkina Faso

An al-Qaeda-linked group, Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a Burkina Faso army base in Djibo, reportedly killing 200 soldiers. The SITE Intelligence Group confirmed the claim, noting rising JNIM activity. Civilians and soldiers were among the dead, with additional attacks reported in Loroum province and Sole town. JNIM has warned civilians to flee and threatened further territorial gains. The attacks occurred as Burkina Faso's leader visited Russia for military support. Despite a 2022 military takeover, over 60% of the country remains outside government control, highlighting ongoing instability in the Sahel region.