A new wave of coordinated strikes by jihadist insurgents and their Tuareg separatist partners has targeted multiple locations across Mali. Military officials, local witnesses, and security personnel confirm that the assaults began in the early morning hours of July 4, 2026. This escalation follows similar strikes two months ago that resulted in the death of the nation’s defence minister.
Locations affected by the violence include Gao, Anefis, Aguelhok, and Sevare, along with a major correctional facility in Kenieroba. The prison, situated near the capital of Bamako, houses various jihadist detainees. One inmate reported ongoing gunfire while taking cover.
Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane of the Azawad Liberation Front confirmed that combat remains active in Anefis. Although some military positions have been compromised, local residents noted that government forces are still defending the area. The towns of Anefis and Aguelhok are significant as they represent the final outposts for the Malian army in the Kidal region, a territory previously impacted by major offensives in late April.
In Gao, witnesses described hearing heavy explosions and gunfire near a military installation. Meanwhile, in central Sevare, security sources observed aircraft flying overhead shortly after early morning blasts occurred. These latest security breaches signify a sustained challenge for Mali’s ruling military leadership.
