Mali’s army launched airstrikes in Kayes on September 7, 2025, targeting al Qaeda-linked JNIM militants who are blocking fuel to Bamako, the capital.
The goal is to stop the group’s growing control in the Sahel region.
Militants Disrupt Supplies
On September 4, a JNIM leader announced a plan to block fuel to Bamako and limit movement in Kayes and Nioro, near Senegal and Mauritania.
Since then, militants have stopped and emptied fuel trucks, causing trouble for supply routes. A person from Nioro said this is hurting the area.
Djenabou Cisse, a researcher, said, “JNIM wants to cut off Bamako and make the government look weak.”
The group aims to surround cities and get people to protest against Mali’s military leaders, who took over in 2020 and 2021.
Army’s Response
On September 7, a colonel on state TV said the army hit Diema and Nioro with airstrikes. Soldiers also freed people held by militants. These actions aim to stop JNIM from attacking Mali’s roads and businesses.
Travel and Business Problems
The blockade has stopped some truck companies from using the Bamako-Dakar and Bamako-Segou roads, a truckers’ union worker said, not giving his name for safety.
On September 5, jihadists kidnapped six Senegalese drivers, who were freed the next day, a Senegalese union worker said.
Since May 2025, JNIM has attacked Kayes businesses, like cement factories and mines run by firms such as Barrick Mining and B2Gold.
A Bamako security expert, also unnamed, said JNIM’s quick actions show it’s getting stronger and wants to challenge the government.
What’s Next?
Mali’s army faces a tough fight to bring peace as JNIM’s attacks grow. The blockade could harm the economy and make people angry, challenging the military’s rule.
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