The Malian Armed Forces have declared that they have retaken the initiative and regained control in all areas targeted by attacks from the Azawad Liberation Front in the north, as well as the Support Group for Islam and Muslims—a group affiliated with Al-Qaeda—in central and southern Mali.

In an official statement, the Malian military confirmed that clashes persisted on Sunday in Anifif, located in the northeast of the country, roughly 110 kilometers south of Kidal. This followed the arrival of reinforcements for the Azawad Liberation Front.

The statement highlighted that Malian troops responded with resilience, continuing the fight throughout the day with unwavering courage and discipline. It also reaffirmed their “absolute confidence in the ability of the Malian Armed Forces to safeguard national unity, protect civilians, and defeat hostile forces.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Azawad Liberation Front, Mohamed Mouloud Ramadan, had asserted in a recent declaration that the group maintained control over Anifif following the resumption of hostilities.

He also refuted reports of the death of the group’s leader, Mbarek Ag Akli, stating that the commander remained actively involved in directing military operations across northern Mali.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter