In Mali, tensions persist between the Malian army and the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP) rebels. This morning, exchanges of fire took place in Tessalit, endangering the fragile recommendation between the two factions. This situation stems from the landing of a Malian army plane, which would have transported military equipment and potentially troops.
The CSP rebels reacted immediately by opening fire on the Malian soldiers present in the Tessalit camp. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported at this point. However, these exchanges of fire caused an escalation of tension between the two sides.
The arrival of this Malian military plane in Tessalit is a matter of concern for Minusma (United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali), which had not been informed of this event. This situation once again highlights the differences and tensions between the Malian army and the UN peacekeeping mission.
In addition, the CSP recently took possession of several advanced posts located near Tessalit airport, suggesting that they are not ready to cede ground to the Malian army. This struggle for control of territories and resources continues to fuel conflicts in the region.
It is also important to note that the arrival of Russian auxiliaries from the Malian army, belonging to the Wagner group, is causing concern among the civilian population. This group is accused of abuses and human rights violations, which reinforces the feeling of fear and insecurity among civilians already traumatized by past violence.
In this context, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating, with more and more families fleeing Tessalit to escape potential fighting and the presence of military forces. Civilians are the first affected by these conflicts and their security and well-being must be a priority.
It is essential that regional and international actors redouble their efforts to find a lasting political solution to the crisis in Mali. A peaceful and inclusive solution is needed to end the violence and allow the country to rebuild and prosper.
In this article, we examined the ongoing tensions between the Malian army and CSP rebels in Tessalit, Mali. We stressed the importance of finding a lasting political solution to end the violence and protect the civilian population. The current situation raises concerns about the future of stabilization in Mali, and it is essential that efforts to resolve the conflict are intensified.