Armed groups in military-run Mali launched coordinated attacks on Saturday, July 5, 2026, targeting army positions in several towns across the country. The assaults involved a separatist Tuareg-led group and a regional al-Qaeda affiliate, impacting military operations in locations such as Gao and Sevare.
Recent Attacks Across Mali
The Malian army confirmed attacks on five positions: Aguelhok, Anefis, and Gao in the north; Sevare in central Mali; and Kenieroba in the south. The army stated that the situation was “totally under control,” reporting that 20 “terrorists” were killed in Sevare and six in Gao. One pro-government fighter died in Gao, and four others sustained injuries.
In separate statements, the army also indicated it repelled attacks in the central towns of Konna and Somadougou with assistance from the Africa Corps, a Russian-backed paramilitary group. Videos shared on the Africa Corps’ Telegram channel showcased a drone attack on a rebel position in Anefis and a Russian soldier stationed at a base in Aguelhok, although the footage remains unverified.
Who is Behind the Attacks?
The Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), a Tuareg-dominated rebel group, claimed involvement in the recent attacks. The al-Qaeda-linked group, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), also asserted responsibility, stating it seized at least seven positions held by the army or pro-government fighters. These claims are yet to be independently verified.
