07 Nov 2023 | 06:24 PM UTC
Mali: Drone strikes in Kidal left at least 12 people dead Nov. 7
Drone strikes in northern Malian city of Kidal left at least 12 people dead on Nov. 7. Conflict-related insecurity likely to persist.
Drone strikes in Kidal on the morning of Nov. 7 killed at least 12 people and injured 20 others. Reports indicate several children were killed in a strike when an explosion occurred near the Aliou School; the drone strikes have been attributed to the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa). Preliminary reports suggest that around 07:00, FAMa targeted alleged rebel members of the Permanent Strategic Framework (PSF), a Tuareg-dominated armed group, who regained control of Kidal following the recent withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission. The casualty figures may rise in the coming hours.
Increased military operations in conjunction with the Russian-backed PMC Wagner Group, including ground and air assaults, are possible in the intermediate term. Further attacks against the civilian population and armed clashes against the security forces are likely. Localized disruptions to transport and business operations are possible near drone fragment impact sites.
Maintain heightened vigilance if operating in Kidal Region or other areas in northern Mali due to the threat of further armed conflict. Consider conducting travel with a security escort during daylight hours and only following a detailed review of your route. Heed all official directives. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.
Since August, northern Mali has faced complex security and humanitarian challenges due to a resurgence of conflict between various groups competing for territorial control. Following the recent withdrawal of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) forces, the region has faced a security vacuum, allowing competing groups to vie for control. Despite robust anti-terror military operations by the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and Russian-backed PMC Wagner group, the security situation will likely continue to deteriorate despite recent efforts by the security forces to counter the growing threats. Several armed groups, including the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP), Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), Movement for the Salvation of Azawad (MSA); and militant jihadist groups such as the Al-Qaida-affiliated Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) have sought control of various regions in northern Mali.
