What to know about the conflict in Mali and the world’s most terrorized region
Summary
Mali faces a serious security crisis as al-Qaida-linked militants and separatist rebels have joined forces to increase attacks on the military. This new partnership has led to more deadly attacks and a rise in deaths in the country, which is part of a violent region known as the Sahel.Key Facts
- The JNIM jihadi rebels and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) separatists have teamed up to attack Mali’s military.
- In April 2026, the rebels launched massive, coordinated attacks across Mali for the first time in a decade.
- There was a 35% increase in deaths from militant attacks in the first seven months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2024.
- The two groups share a common enemy: the Malian armed forces and Russia’s Africa Corps paramilitary group supporting the military.
- The conflict began in 2012 with the Tuareg rebellion in northern Mali and expanded due to jihadist involvement.
- Mali’s military took control of the government in 2020, citing the ongoing security issues.
- The Sahel region, which includes Mali, is the deadliest area worldwide for terror-related deaths.
- The FLA aims to secure independence for northern Mali and decide local laws, including versions of sharia law, after control is gained.
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