Mali army regains control in key battle zones against armed groups

The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have declared that they have re-established control over all conflict zones targeted by recent offensives from the Azawad Liberation Front in the north and the Support for Islam and Muslims group, an Al-Qaeda affiliate, in central and southern Mali.

In an official statement, the FAMa confirmed that intense fighting persisted on Sunday near Anifif, located in the northeastern region about 110 kilometers south of Kidal, following the arrival of reinforcements for the Azawad Liberation Front.

The military communiqué emphasized: “In response to these pressure attempts, Malian Armed Forces units continued the fight with unwavering determination and resilience, sustaining combat operations throughout the day with discipline and courage.”

The statement reaffirmed absolute confidence in the FAMa’s ability to defend national unity and territorial integrity, safeguard the civilian population, and defeat hostile forces.

The spokesperson for the Azawad Liberation Front, Mohamed Mouloud Ramadan, had earlier claimed control over Anifif following the resumption of hostilities. He also refuted reports of the group’s leader, Mbarek Ag Akli, being killed, asserting that he remains actively directing military operations in northern Mali.