Tuareg rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) coalition ride on the back of a pickup truck in Kidal, on April 26, 2026. April 25, 2026's shock attacks, synchronised by Tuareg rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) coalition and the jihadist Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), targeted several areas in the vast arid country. Fighting resumed on April 26 in several areas, including Kita near Bamako, Kidal, Gao and Severe. Tuareg rebels meanwhile announced an agreement allowing Russian forces backing Mali's army to withdraw from the northern city of Kidal, which they claimed was "totally" under their control. (Photo by AFP) / The erroneous mention[s] appearing in the metadata of this photo by - has been modified in AFP systems in the following manner: [Removes byline]. Please immediately remove the erroneous mention[s] from all your online services and delete it (them) from your servers. If you have been authorized by AFP to distribute it (them) to third parties, please ensure that the same actions are carried out by them. Failure to promptly comply with these instructions will entail liability on your part for any continued or post notification usage. Therefore we thank you very much for all your attention and prompt action. We are sorry for the inconvenience this notification may cause and remain at your disposal for any further information you may require.
Understanding JNIM: the jihadist group threatening Bamako
The Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) is now posing a direct risk to the stability of Bamako. This Al-Qaeda-linked extremist organization is working toward the creation of a vast Islamic emirate in the heart of the Sahel, putting the Malian capital at risk of falling. Here is an overview of the group’s rise and objectives.
The Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has reached the outskirts of Bamako. If the capital is seized, this group—already the most formidable jihadist entity in the Sahel—would effectively control a massive portion of Mali. Affiliated with Al-Qaeda, JNIM leads the current insurgency, successfully pushing back national military forces and Russian mercenaries.
JNIM was formally established on March 2, 2017, through the merger of four militant groups active in the region. Operating under the Al-Qaeda banner, the coalition has spread its influence across the territory. Its leader, Iyad Ag Ghali, a former Tuareg rebel and diplomat, serves as the group’s emir. Since the withdrawal of the French Barkhane forces, JNIM has seen a significant increase in power and operational capacity.
Establishing a Sahelian Islamic emirate
The group’s core ideology is rooted in a strict interpretation of Islam. Consequently, these militants are fighting to replace existing structures with a religious emirate covering the Sahel.
In September 2025, JNIM implemented economic blockades around several cities, a strategic move designed to prepare for larger military confrontations. By late April, the organization launched a multi-pronged offensive alongside Tuareg rebels against the ruling military junta. With an estimated 5,000 active fighters, JNIM has achieved multiple tactical successes and currently represents a major factor in Bamako news today, as it sits at the city’s gates.
As the situation evolves, the group remains a central figure in Mali politics and the broader landscape of Mali security. For those following West Africa Mali developments and Mali English news, the group’s advance marks a critical turning point for the nation.
