**Dozens of Militants Killed in Mali Army Base Battle**
Mali's military has reported significant casualties among militants following a large-scale attack on an army base in the central city of San. The assault, which occurred early on Sunday morning, involved fighters from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an affiliate of Al-Qaeda, and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA).
According to an official statement released by the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) on Tuesday, the attack targeted the base of the 23rd Infantry Regiment. The militants employed heavy machine guns, kamikaze drones, payload-dropping drones, and two armored vehicles during the assault. One of the armored vehicles managed to breach the perimeter wall of the base.
In response, the FAMa stated that the defending units mounted a vigorous and coordinated defense, successfully repelling the assault. The military reported that more than 50 militants were killed during the confrontation, with several others wounded. The statement also mentioned that some terrorists had infiltrated the base but were neutralized, allowing the Malian forces to regain control of the facility.
While the military acknowledged that there were casualties among its ranks, it did not specify the number of soldiers killed or injured during the clashes.
The attack in San is part of a broader trend of violence that has escalated in the Sahel region, particularly since a series of military coups began in 2020. These coups have led to the overthrow of civilian governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, reshaping the political landscape in the area.
Historically, France has played a significant role in the region, deploying troops under Operation Barkhane, which was its largest overseas military mission. However, rising anti-French sentiment and dissatisfaction with the security situation have led to a decline in French influence. France withdrew its troops from Mali in 2022 and has since pulled out from Burkina Faso and Niger. The military governments in the region have criticized the effectiveness of the French-led operations, claiming that they have allowed Islamist insurgents to expand their activities.
In response to the growing security challenges, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and have distanced themselves from the International Organization of Francophone Nations (OIF). This new alliance has sought to establish partnerships with other countries, including Russia, which is viewed as a more reliable ally in terms of economic and security support.
Additionally, the FAMa reported that its troops, in collaboration with partners, conducted strikes against militant positions in various regions over the weekend, including near Abeibara in Kidal, Razelma in Timbuktu, and northwest of Mahou in Koutiala. The Russian Defense Ministry's Africa Corps, which is providing counterterrorism support in Mali, shared images and videos documenting the aftermath of the fighting, including purported evidence of the militants' casualties.
The military also claimed to have destroyed armed vehicles, drones, and motorcycles used by the militants during the San attack. Following the initial assault, a group of militants involved in the attack was located approximately 17 kilometers from San, where they were pursued and killed. Some of their equipment was reportedly destroyed, while the remainder was recovered by the Malian forces.
In a related development, last month, Malian troops, supported by the Africa Corps, successfully retook the strategic northern town of Anefis after nearly a week of intense fighting against JNIM and FLA forces.
The situation in Mali remains complex, with ongoing military operations aimed at countering the threat posed by various militant groups in the region. The Malian government continues to navigate the challenges of security, governance, and international relations as it seeks to stabilize the country amidst persistent violence and instability.