Mali army regains control in key conflict zones

Mali’s armed forces declare control over contested regions after fierce clashes

The Malian military has declared it has reclaimed the upper hand in critical zones previously targeted by coordinated offensives from armed groups operating in the north and central regions of the country. According to an official statement from the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA), the situation has stabilized following intense engagements with the Front de Libération de l’Azawad (FLA) in the north and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an Al-Qaeda-affiliated faction, in the center and south.

In the northeastern sector, near Anifif—approximately 110 kilometers south of Kidal—the army reported sustained combat operations on Sunday. The clashes intensified after reinforcements arrived to bolster the FLA’s position, prompting a robust response from FAMA units committed to securing the area.

The military’s statement emphasized the resilience and discipline of its forces, stating: « Despite escalating pressure from hostile elements, our troops maintained their operational focus throughout the day, executing maneuvers with precision and unwavering determination. » The communiqué underscored the army’s « absolute confidence » in its ability to safeguard Mali’s sovereignty, protect civilians, and defeat enemy forces.

In a separate development, the FLA’s spokesperson, Mohamed Mouloud Ramadan, contested earlier claims about the group’s losses, asserting that its leader, Mbarek Ag Akli, remains active and continues to oversee military operations in northern Mali. Ramadan dismissed reports of Ag Akli’s death, reinforcing the group’s stance on its continued operational capacity.