Militant Attack in Bamako Leaves Dozens Dead

A significant militant attack in Mali's capital, Bamako, has reportedly resulted in over 70 deaths and approximately 200 injuries, with estimates from security sources indicating a death toll that could reach as high as 100. The attack, claimed by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), targeted a military police training camp and a military airport, marking a rare and devastating assault in the capital. Despite ongoing violence in the region, this incident is notable as it brings the Islamist insurrection closer to the governmental stronghold. The military junta has yet to release an official death toll, although they acknowledged that 'some human lives were lost.' Analysts suggest this operation represents a significant blow to the ruling junta, which has been in power since a series of coups began in 2020. The attack occurred shortly after the one-year anniversary of the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.