Mali War
In short
Malian military forces and Russian-backed Africa Corps have retaken the strategic northern town of Kidal from Tuareg separatists and al-Qaeda-linked jihadists, as reported on 6 October 2026.
What is happening
The Malian junta has launched a significant security operation in the north to reclaim territory held by rebels. This offensive follows the seizure of Kidal by the Azawad Liberation Front and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam five months ago.
When
The conflict began on 16 January 2012.
Why it matters
The recapture of Kidal represents a major shift in control over northern Mali. Furthermore, the regional instability is compounded by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger cutting ties with the International Criminal Court.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse the ongoing Mali War with the traditional Tuareg leather-making crafts used as alternatives to plastic bottles.