On April 25, 2026, several unknown armed groups carried out coordinated attacks in Mali. This further exacerbated the political and security crisis in the country. Mali has been under military rule for most of the last 14 years.
According to a military source, on April 26, Defense Minister Sadio Camara was killed in an attack on his home in Kati. The attacks also affected the capital Bamako. The military said unknown terrorist groups targeted military facilities and barracks.
Who claimed responsibility? The Al-Qaeda-linked group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for attacks on Kati, Bamako airport, Mopti, Sevare, and Gao. Tuareg rebels also said they participated in the recent attacks.
What is the situation? The military reported killing hundreds of attackers and repelling the assault. However, large-scale clearance operations continue in Bamako, Kati, and other areas. An Al Jazeera correspondent noted that the scale and coordination of the attack were unprecedented.
The African Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the US condemned the attacks. Military ruler Assimi Goita has not yet made an official statement.
