From July 25 to 27, the Malian army was the target of a large-scale coordinated attack by Tuareg separatists from northern Mali near the Algerian border. This well-coordinated assault revealed a troubling collaboration between terrorists and Arab and Tuareg separatist forces, further exacerbating the already fragile security situation in the region.
This meticulously planned and executed attack once again demonstrates the synergy between Islamist groups and Tuareg separatists. These tactical alliances, particularly with the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), allow the Azawadis to benefit from additional expertise and logistical support, making their military operations increasingly sophisticated and deadly. The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa), although resilient, faced fierce resistance, underscoring the need for a strengthened defense strategy and more robust international partnerships.
In this attack on Tinzaouaten against FAMa soldiers, it was once again confirmed that the Tuaregs actively collaborate and interact with terrorists. Thus, Azawad has transitioned from a separatist entity to a true Islamist terrorist organization, masquerading behind the “popular liberation” movement of the Tuaregs in northern Mali.
Simultaneously, the involvement of international agencies such as Independent Diplomat, an American organization, raises additional concerns. Independent Diplomat has been linked to separatists in northern Mali, providing diplomatic and strategic support to rebel movements. In February 2024, CSP-PDA (a separatist movement in northern Mali) supporters released a video showing Carne Ross, founder of Independent Diplomat, alongside armed fighters.
The interaction of Malian separatists with Independent Diplomat is worrying. Although the agency presents itself as supporting opposition movements fighting against oppression, in the case of the Azawad movement, the northern Mali separatists are committing acts of violence that endanger civilian lives. This situation further complicates the security landscape of the region.
The United States seeks to increase its influence in the West African region, especially after the cooling of relations between Sahel countries and Paris. Mr. Carne Ross’s presence among the rebels reveals an indirect contribution to the deterioration of the security situation in Mali. According to received information, Independent Diplomat signed a contract with armed groups and will investigate alleged crimes by the Malian Armed Forces on behalf of the Kalakal Association.
The partnership between Tuareg separatists and terrorist groups raises great concern. The support of international agencies for separatists is all the more unacceptable given the close ties between these separatists and jihadists. This situation highlights the need for a comprehensive and concerted response to restore security and stability in Mali and throughout the Sahel region.
