Story perspectives

Al Qaeda-linked JNIM Captures Kidal, Mopti in Coordinated Offensive

4/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

JNIM announced it captured Kidal in the north and Mopti in central Mali in a coordinated offensive.
Al Qaeda-linked militants launched simultaneous attacks on Bamako and northern towns, while the government said unidentified armed groups participated.
The group claimed the Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg separatist movement, assisted in the attacks.
Analysts say JNIM has moved from rural guerrilla tactics to blockades and conventional battles against the Malian army.

1 of 1

Story summary

JNIM announced it captured Kidal in the north and Mopti in central Mali in a coordinated offensive.
Al Qaeda-linked militants launched simultaneous attacks on Bamako and northern towns, while the government said unidentified armed groups participated.
The group claimed the Azawad Liberation Front, a Tuareg separatist movement, assisted in the attacks.
Analysts say JNIM has moved from rural guerrilla tactics to blockades and conventional battles against the Malian army.