Mali Files ICJ Case Accusing Algeria of Drone Downing Near Border

Mali's transitional government has filed a case against Algeria at the International Court of Justice, accusing Algeria of deliberately shooting down a Malian military reconnaissance drone near their shared desert border at Tinzaouaten in the Kidal region. Mali claims the drone was targeted to hinder its military operations against armed terrorist groups and describes the incident as an act of aggression and a violation of the principle of non-use of force. Mali has repeatedly requested evidence from Algeria to prove that the drone violated Algerian airspace but has received no response. Algeria, on the other hand, contends that its forces shot down an armed surveillance drone that had entered its airspace. The dispute marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two neighboring countries, with Mali emphasizing the hostile nature of Algeria's actions and Algeria defending its response as a measure of self-defense.