A major jihadist offensive backed by Turkish allies has rocked Syria, seizing control of over 50 towns and villages near Aleppo and breaching the city’s outskirts. The fighting, some of the deadliest in years, has resulted in over 250 deaths and a massive displacement of civilians. The assault raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the existing ceasefire and the regional power dynamics at play.
Suspected jihadists in central Mali have abducted and continue to hold over 110 civilians who were in buses on April 16th. The Malian army has reportedly been conducting operations in the region, but armed groups have continued their attacks in the center and south. Mali has been facing political and humanitarian crises, with the junta silencing the opposition, journalists, and human rights defenders.
