Coordinated attacks across Mali mark one of largest assaults in years

Coordinated attacks across Mali mark one of largest assaults in years
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Armed groups launched coordinated attacks across Mali on April 25, striking the capital Bamako and multiple cities in the north and centre in what officials and analysts describe as one of the most significant assaults in recent years.

Mali’s army said “terrorist groups” targeted military bases and key infrastructure, including areas near the international airport and the Kati military camp outside Bamako. Residents reported heavy gunfire, explosions, and helicopter activity as fighting broke out across several areas.

Attacks were also reported in cities including Gao, Kidal and Sévaré. The al-Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility alongside the Tuareg-led Azawad Liberation Front, highlighting a rare level of coordination between jihadist and separatist groups.

The Malian government said security forces repelled the attacks and that the situation was brought under control, though operations were ongoing. Officials reported at least 16 people injured, with no confirmed death toll.

Flights were temporarily disrupted and some areas placed under curfew as authorities responded. Armed groups claimed control of parts of northern areas such as Kidal, but this remains unverified.

Analysts say the scale and coordination of the attacks reflect worsening insecurity in Mali, where the military government led by Assimi Goïta has struggled to contain insurgencies despite years of counterterrorism efforts.