After their defeat in Kidal, the rebels grouped within the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP-PSD) left the city, leaving questions surrounding their next actions. Who are they really? What is their future? What else can they accomplish?
Fighters from the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) and the High Council for the Unity of Azawad (HCUA) were the main actors in the attempt to block the Malian army and the mercenaries of the Wagner company in Kidal. But after their strategic withdrawal, they headed towards the far north, certainly towards the Tigharghar mountains, a familiar place for them.
These rebels know the Tigharghar mountains well, having already found refuge in this rocky massif during past rebellions. It is a difficult location to access, at over 700 meters above sea level, making it an ideal refuge for fighters looking to escape their enemies.
Despite their withdrawal from Kidal, the rebels assure that they are reorganizing and promise to continue the fight. However, some observers question their chances of success in the face of the adversary’s firepower. Malian forces and Wagner Company mercenaries have reinforced their positions, making a major offensive by the rebels difficult.
In this situation, asymmetric warfare might be the best option for CSP-PSD fighters. Using guerrilla tactics, they could continue to harass the enemy and carry out urban warfare actions to weaken opposing forces. However, this strategy also carries risks, as the Malian army and its allies are well equipped and have a strong presence in the region.
It therefore remains to be seen what the next actions of the CSP-PSD rebels will be. The situation is complex and the conflict is far from resolved. The political, economic and social issues surrounding the question of Azawad are numerous, and peace and dialogue initiatives are needed to find a lasting solution to this conflict.
In conclusion, the CSP-PSD rebels have left Kidal but are not giving up their fight. Their next actions remain uncertain, but it is likely that they will continue to carry out guerrilla and asymmetric warfare actions in an attempt to destabilize their enemies. It will be necessary to observe the evolution of the situation to see if a peaceful and lasting solution can be found for Azawad.