The clash between the Malian army and the Permanent Strategic Framework rebels in Tessalit continues to rage, with exchanges of fire taking place in recent days. But beyond the field, this battle is also being played out in the Malian and UN diplomatic corridors.
The situation has been tense in Tessalit since the withdrawal of Minusma from its camps located in the region. Malian forces deployed reinforcements, including Malian soldiers and Wagner auxiliaries, by air. However, these movements did not go smoothly, since the CSP rebels opened fire on the Malian army plane when it landed, indirectly benefiting from the presence of Minusma which was securing the runway.
Minusma, for its part, began its withdrawal from the Tessalit and Aguelhoc bases in a climate of high tension. Details regarding the terms and date of this withdrawal are not yet disclosed, in order to preserve the security of the troops. However, it is specified that the priority is to protect the men, then the equipment, with evacuation by air.
Minusma also plans to accelerate its departure from the Kidal base, stronghold of rebel groups. The United Nations emphasizes the need for cooperation with the Malian authorities to ensure the safety of the peacekeepers during this disengagement.
However, the Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdoulaye Diop, demands scrupulous compliance with the Minusma withdrawal plan and the deadlines set. He also recalls that authorizations for logistical convoys in support of disengagement will be issued depending on the improvement in the security situation.
However, convoys are still waiting for authorizations since September 24, blocked in Gao. The minister cites the security situation to justify this delay, while Minusma has already deplored this situation since last weekend. These convoys transport UN equipment, including vehicles and weapons, belonging to troop-contributing countries. If this equipment is not repatriated quickly, part of it could be recovered by the Malian army, while the weapons would have to be destroyed.
The presence of blue helmets in Tessalit, Aguelhoc and Kidal is a major issue. The Malian army wishes to recover the sovereignty of these bases, while the CSP rebels are opposed to this by referring to the 2015 peace agreement. This race for control of these bases is punctuated by clashes and conflicts. exchanges of fire, with Minusma which acts as a shield for the Malian army.
Tensions between the United Nations, the Malian transitional authorities and the CSP rebels are palpable. But despite their differences, they all share the same objective of seeing the departure of Minusma from the Kidal region as quickly as possible..
In conclusion, the confrontation between the Malian army and the Permanent Strategic Framework rebels in Tessalit continues to gain momentum, both on the ground and in diplomatic spheres. The situation remains tense, with exchanges of fire and tensions between the different parties involved. It is essential that measures are taken to calm the situation and find a peaceful solution to this conflict.