Following intense clashes in northern and central Mali, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) have declared they have regained the upper hand in all affected areas, including zones targeted by the Azawad Liberation Front in the north and the Support for Islam and Muslims Group (JNIM), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, in the center and south.
renewed military operations and strategic gains
In a detailed official statement, the FAMA confirmed that military operations intensified on Sunday at Anifif, located in the northeast of the country, roughly 110 kilometers south of Kidal. The escalation followed the arrival of additional fighters and supplies for the Azawad Liberation Front, prompting a decisive response from Malian troops.
According to the military’s account, the FAMA units engaged in sustained combat throughout the day, demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline. The statement emphasized their unwavering commitment to restoring security, stating: « Our forces have fought with unshakable determination to defend national sovereignty, safeguard civilian lives, and dismantle enemy operations. »
leadership denies losses amid ongoing conflict
Meanwhile, the Azawad Liberation Front’s spokesperson, Mohamed Mouloud Ramadan, asserted control over the situation at Anfif, contradicting earlier reports of a Malian advance. He also refuted claims of the death of the group’s leader, Mbarek Ag Akli, affirming that the commander remains actively involved in directing military operations across northern Mali.