Mali army regains ground against JNIM and FLA militants

Malian Armed Forces declare tactical advantage regained in key conflict zones

The Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) have declared that they have successfully restored security and operational control across multiple conflict-affected regions, where clashes with the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) in the north and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM)—affiliated with Al-Qaeda—in central and southern Mali have intensified in recent days.

In an official statement, the military reported that renewed fighting erupted on Sunday in Anifif, a strategic location in the northeast, approximately 110 kilometers south of Kidal. This followed the arrival of additional reinforcements for the MNLA, prompting a swift response from Malian troops.

The army emphasized the resilience of its forces, stating: “Confronted with these coordinated assaults, our units engaged with unwavering determination and tactical precision throughout the day. Every soldier demonstrated exceptional discipline and courage under pressure.”

The statement reaffirmed the military’s commitment to defending Mali’s territorial integrity, safeguarding civilian populations, and neutralizing enemy combatants. Commanders expressed full confidence in the operational capabilities of the FAMA to achieve these objectives.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the MNLA, Mohamed Mouloud Ramadan, had previously asserted control over Anifif following the resumption of hostilities. He also dismissed reports of the group’s leader, Mbarek Ag Akli, being killed, confirming that he remains actively involved in overseeing military operations across northern Mali.