Written by: Badr Ahmed

Relations between Mali and Algeria have returned to their normal course after approximately 15 months of diplomatic rupture and security tension. This move reflects a new breakthrough between the two countries following the crisis of the downing of a Malian army reconnaissance drone in April 2025, which led to a series of escalating measures, closure of airspace, and recall of ambassadors.

Resumption of relations between Mali and Algeria

Authorities in Bamako and Algiers announced on Friday the full resumption of diplomatic relations, through the return of ambassadors to their posts, along with the reopening of airspace to civilian and military air traffic between the two countries, a step that will revive political communication, transport movement, and regional cooperation.

The Algerian Ministry of Defense stated in a press release that the decision to reopen national airspace to Malian aircraft will take effect from July 10, 2026, and includes all flights arriving from or departing from Mali via various international destinations. The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced the return of Ambassador Kamal Rataib to Bamako, in implementation of the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, after more than a year since his recall for consultations.

In contrast, the Malian government announced the reopening of its airspace to all civilian and military aircraft arriving from or heading to Algeria, also confirming the return of its ambassador to Algeria, reflecting a shared desire to move beyond the period of tension and restore diplomatic channels of communication.

The crisis erupted in early April 2025, when the Algerian army announced the downing of a surveillance drone that it claimed had penetrated Algerian airspace near the border area of Tin Zaouatine. Meanwhile, Malian authorities rejected the Algerian narrative, confirming that the drone was shot down inside Malian territory and describing the incident as an act of aggression. .

The crisis at the time led to the reciprocal closure of airspace between the two countries based on the principle of reciprocity. Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso also recalled their ambassadors to Algeria, while Algeria recalled its ambassadors to Mali and Niger, deepening the divisions within the Sahel region.

This convergence comes amid transformations in the region, especially after the improvement of relations between Mali and both Niger and Burkina Faso, amid efforts to realign regional balances and strengthen security coordination.

The breakthrough coincides with ongoing disputes over the Algerian peace agreement signed in 2015, which the Malian military authorities terminated at the beginning of 2024, considering that it no longer achieved its objectives. Meanwhile, Algeria believes the agreement represents one of the core pillars for supporting stability in northern Mali, which continues to face escalating security challenges due to the activity of armed groups and separatist movements.