The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have intensified a nationwide military campaign targeting al-Qaeda-linked jihadist group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), following a string of coordinated assaults on July 1 that targeted eight key positions across central and western Mali. The initial attacks struck towns including Niono, Kayes, and Nioro du Sahel, where JNIM militants claimed responsibility and reported inflicting casualties on Malian troops. In a swift response, FAMa launched robust counter-operations, reportedly neutralizing more than 80 militants, destroying multiple jihadist bases, and seizing significant caches of weapons, vehicles, and ammunition.
Speaking at a press briefing, Colonel-Major Souleymane Dembélé confirmed that the Malian military immediately mobilized air and ground forces to regain control of the affected zones and prevent further insurgent advances. Military operations expanded over the following two weeks, targeting jihadist networks in the regions of Kayes, Nara, Ménaka, and Timbuktu. Notably, airstrikes and ground raids dismantled enemy camps in the Gal-Gal forest, Bamadougou, and Tin Aïcha—key logistical and training hubs used by militants.
On July 15, a coordinated air operation in Anderamboukané, near the borders with Niger and Burkina Faso, resulted in the deaths of 40 jihadist fighters. That mission was carried out with intelligence and operational support from partner forces within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Another major success was recorded on July 17 in Niono, where troops disrupted attempts by insurgents to reestablish a foothold in the area. The Malian General Staff emphasized that counter-terrorism efforts will continue with full force and stated that no Malian troop casualties had been recorded in the most recent phase of operations. The offensive marks one of the strongest military pushbacks in recent months, as Mali continues to battle rising insecurity despite withdrawing from UN peacekeeping operations and deepening regional military alliances.
