A wave of drone strikes in northern Mali has left at least 15 civilians dead, including children, according to local sources. The incident took place in the vicinity of Tinzaouatene, near the Algerian border, an area that has witnessed intense clashes between the Malian army, its Russian allies, and separatist groups.
The separatists, primarily from the Tuareg ethnic group, have accused the Malian junta and Wagner mercenaries of carrying out the strikes, stating that 21 civilians, including 11 children, were killed. They claim the initial strike targeted a pharmacy, followed by subsequent attacks on civilian gatherings near the site.
The Malian government has not yet publicly commented on the incident. However, a local politician confirmed that at least 15 civilians lost their lives in the strikes, while an NGO official reported the death toll to be at least 20.
This tragedy comes on the heels of a major battle in late July, where the separatists claim to have inflicted a heavy defeat on the Malian army and Wagner forces in Tinzaouatene. The fighting lasted for three days, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
The Malian government has been engaged in a protracted struggle against separatists and jihadist groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State since 2020, when a military coup brought the current junta to power. The conflict intensified in August 2023, marking the resumption of hostilities after an eight-year lull.
The junta, led by Colonel Assimi Goita, has severed ties with France, the former colonial power, and forged a strategic alliance with Russia. This partnership has seen the deployment of Wagner mercenaries to Mali, though the junta maintains they are only acting as military instructors.
Since the arrival of Wagner forces, allegations of human rights abuses against civilians by the Malian army and its Russian allies have grown increasingly prevalent. These accusations, which the Malian authorities deny, have contributed to escalating tensions in the region.
The recent drone strikes further exacerbate the situation, raising concerns about civilian casualties and the potential for an escalation of the conflict. The international community is watching developments closely, calling for an end to violence and a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Mali.
