Title: The Malian army intensifies its drone attacks in Kidal, but at what cost?
Introduction
In recent days, the Malian army has launched a series of drone attacks in Kidal, the stronghold of the CSP (Permanent Strategic Framework) rebels. The objective was to recover the former Minusma camp, now occupied by the CSP. However, these attacks had a high human cost, with around ten deaths, including several children. Among the victims, we include Moussa Ag Almouner, a teacher appreciated by all. While the army claims to have targeted “terrorist” targets, it is important to ask whether these attacks are justified and what their real impact is on the situation in Kidal.
Deadly strikes
Moussa Ag Almouner, a teacher from Gourma-Rharous, in the Timbuktu region, moved to Kidal in 2015 to teach the first cycle of the school. He was loved by everyone for his joy of life, his sociability and his open-mindedness. However, he was killed during one of the Malian army’s drone strikes. According to those close to him, Moussa had no links with the rebel or terrorist groups targeted by the army. He was a simple teacher devoted to his students, who did not deserve to die this way.
The argument of the Malian army
The Malian army, in a press release released Tuesday evening, claims that its drone strikes targeted “terrorist” targets. However, it is important to emphasize that this term is used loosely by Malian authorities and can encompass both CSP rebels and jihadists. It is therefore difficult to know with certainty who the real targets of these attacks were. Furthermore, it is legitimate to question whether the use of drones is the best approach to resolve the conflict in Kidal, given the tragic consequences that this entails.
The offensive continues
Despite the human losses and the controversy surrounding these drone attacks, the Malian army continues its offensive to retake the UN camp in Kidal. Airstrikes were reported in the area and troop movements were observed. However, it is important to ask whether this strategy is truly effective in eradicating the terrorist threat in the region. Are there not other, more peaceful and diplomatic approaches that could lead to a more lasting resolution of the conflict in Kidal?
Conclusion
The Malian army’s drone attacks in Kidal raise many questions about their legitimacy and effectiveness. If the objective is to regain control of the UN camp occupied by the CSP rebels, it is essential to ensure that the strikes really target terrorist targets and that they do not cause collateral damage among the civilian population. It is also important to explore other peaceful and diplomatic solutions to achieve a lasting peace agreement in the Kidal region.. Because in this conflict, every life counts and every decision must be made with caution and responsibility.