Al-Qaeda-linked militants launch major offensive in Mali, killing defence minister

Al-Qaeda-linked militants launch major offensive in Mali, killing defence minister
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Coordinated attacks have struck multiple locations across Mali, carried out by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin—an affiliate of Al-Qaeda—alongside Tuareg rebel groups.

According to Reuters, Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara was killed after attackers targeted his residence at the Kati military base near Bamako. The Malian government later confirmed his death, stating he was killed when assailants struck his home during the assaults.

Reporting by The Guardian indicates that the killing occurred as part of a sweeping, highly coordinated offensive in which militants and separatists seized towns and attacked military bases across the country. The attacks involved tactics such as car bombs, armed assaults, and possibly drones, marking one of the most significant escalations in Mali in recent years.

Witnesses reported heavy gunfire and explosions in several areas, including near military installations. The attacks extended beyond the capital to northern and central regions, highlighting the extent of the operation.

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, calling for an international response to the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel.

Militant groups linked to Al-Qaeda, in coordination with Tuareg separatists, have claimed responsibility for the assaults, which targeted areas around Bamako, gold-producing regions, and key cities across Mali.

Mali has for years faced insurgencies from groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and ISIS, alongside separatist movements in the north.