The armed forces of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have launched a large-scale joint military operation targeting militant positions in northern Mali. The coordinated effort marks a significant escalation in the regional fight against insurgent groups operating within the Sahel.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, citing Al Arabiya, the joint forces conducted massive airstrikes against armed groups in the region. Fousseyni Ouattara, Vice President of the Defense Commission of Mali's transitional council, stated that Bamako coordinated these actions with Burkina Faso and Niger as part of the unified forces of the Confederation of Sahel States. This follows a thwarted coup attempt on April 25, which was reportedly prevented by Africa Corps units, averting significant civilian casualties.
The Sahel region has faced increasing instability over the past decade due to the rise of various insurgent groups. In response, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in 2023, later evolving into a confederation to enhance security cooperation and mutual defense. This latest operation underscores the growing military integration between these West African nations as they seek regional solutions to combat terrorism and maintain territorial integrity.
