Rebel Group Claims Capture of Kidal Amid Escalating Conflict in Mali

(MENAFN) The Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), a Tuareg-led armed coalition, announced that its forces have taken what it described as full control of the northern Malian city of Kidal following a coordinated military operation, according to reports citing a statement from the group’s leadership.

The group claimed that only a limited number of opposing forces remain in the area, including Russian personnel linked to the Africa Corps and Malian soldiers positioned inside a former UN peacekeeping base previously used by MINUSMA.

The announcement followed claims by Mali’s transitional authorities that coordinated attacks by armed groups targeted multiple locations across the country, including Bamako, Kati, Sevaré, Gao, and Kidal. Officials said the assaults left both civilians and soldiers injured, while security forces were able to contain the situation, neutralize attackers, and reestablish control.

Authorities also stated that the security situation had been brought under control and urged citizens to remain alert while praising the response of national forces.

The FLA also stated that its operation was carried out in coordination with JNIM, an armed group linked to al-Qaeda. It described joint actions involving attacks on military positions, including in the city of Gao, framing the campaign as part of a broader effort to gain territorial control and provide protection for local communities.

In its statement, the group declared that its forces had taken complete control of Kidal, presenting the operation as part of what it called a broader strategy of “territorial liberation” and long-term regional security in Azawad.

The FLA also accused Malian forces and their allied foreign partners of human rights abuses, stating that its objectives include enabling the “voluntary, safe and dignified return” of displaced residents and refugees to the region.

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