Mali Army Reports Killing 80 Militants Following al-Qaeda Linked Attacks

Mali’s armed forces killed 80 fighters following coordinated attacks by al-Qaeda-linked group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) on military posts across seven towns in central and western Mali. The attacks targeted areas including Diboli, Kayes, Sandere, Nioro du Sahel, Gogoui, Molodo, and Niono. JNIM claimed responsibility, stating it had taken control of multiple barracks. The military confirmed heavy losses for the attackers, showing visuals of dead militants and seized equipment. Residents described intense gunfire and panic. Mali, under military rule since 2020, continues battling armed groups linked to ISIL and al-Qaeda, alongside long-standing Tuareg rebellions in the north.