Written by: Qusay Ahmed

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Mali announced in a statement that intensive search operations for armed terrorist groups are continuing in the Kidal and Kati regions and other vital areas of the country.

The agency confirmed in a statement that the attacks that targeted the country on Saturday, April 25, 2026, which were orchestrated with the aim of destabilizing the country and spreading fear and chaos, will not go unanswered.

The authority explained that the armed forces have raised the level of alert throughout the country, imposing a curfew and intensifying security patrols in various areas.

Checkpoints and surveillance measures have also been strengthened to ensure the security of the country and the protection of civilians in the face of ongoing terrorist threats.

The statement also affirmed that the armed forces remain fully committed to defending the territorial integrity and protecting national security. The authority commended the defense and security forces for their swift response and combat readiness, urging them to maintain high vigilance during this critical period.

The authority praised the cooperation and support of citizens, stressing the importance of continued coordination between authorities and residents, and urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to ensure enhanced security efforts.

In closing, the General Staff of the Armed Forces affirmed that national unity and cohesion are the path to victory in the face of terrorist threats, saying: United, we will prevail.

What is happening in Mali?

Several areas, including Sevare, Kidal and Gao, witnessed explosions and simultaneous gunfire, according to eyewitnesses, while army forces deployed and closed roads leading to the areas of engagement, indicating the possibility of a large-scale and coordinated attack.

In a previous statement, the Malian army confirmed that unidentified armed terrorist groups had launched attacks on military barracks in the capital and inland areas, noting that clashes were ongoing and calling on residents to remain calm.

Azawad Liberation Front control

In contrast, a spokesman for the Azawad Liberation Front said that the Front's forces had seized positions in Kidal and Gao, statements that have not been independently verified, while security sources spoke of the possible involvement of groups linked to al-Qaeda in some of the attacks.