Mali’s army reportedly carried out a series of overnight strikes between Wednesday and Thursday on the northern desert town of Kidal, a key stronghold in the country’s long-running conflict.
The town has been under the control of Tuareg rebels and allied fighters from the JNIM since coordinated nationwide attacks in late April that saw several military positions overrun across northern Mali.
Residents told an AFP journalist that at least four explosions were heard during the night, causing significant material damage across parts of the town.
One strike reportedly destroyed a house near a former market area, while another hit the governor’s compound, raising concerns about escalating military activity in the region.
A Malian army officer said the strikes were aimed at “specific objectives” and warned that operations would intensify in the coming days.
Witnesses described an unusually quiet atmosphere in Kidal on Thursday morning, with minimal movement on the streets following the overnight bombardment.
The strategic town has long been central to Mali’s northern conflict, previously serving as an unofficial headquarters of the Tuareg Azawad Liberation Front coalition for more than a decade.
Kidal was recaptured by Mali’s armed forces in late 2023 with support from Russian mercenary fighters, marking a major shift in control of the region.
The latest strikes suggest renewed volatility in northern Mali as government forces attempt to reassert control amid growing insurgent pressure.
