Mali Conflict Intensifies with Reported Use of Banned Cluster Bombs
For the first time in Mali's turbulent north, the military, alongside Russian forces, has commenced the use of cluster munitions amid ongoing conflicts involving jihadist factions, separatist groups, and governmental troops that have persisted for over a decade.
For the first time in Mali’s turbulent north, the military, alongside Russian forces, has commenced the use of cluster munitions amid ongoing conflicts involving jihadist factions, separatist groups, and governmental troops that have persisted for over a decade.
Sources on the ground, security experts, and human rights organizations have confirmed that these bombs were deployed during recent counter-terrorism operations. Reports indicate that the initial strike took place in Oubder, situated near In-Gouzma within the Timbuktu region, followed by a second attack in Tadjmart close to Aguelhoc in the Kidal region.
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The use of such weaponry has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates and separatist entities, notably the Azawad Liberation Front, which claims to be gathering unexploded remnants as part of their documentation efforts. There are heightened concerns over the peril these munitions pose to civilians, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and herders, who face ongoing threats from unexploded ordnance left in the aftermath.
