Dozens of civilians killed in suspected jihadist attack in Mali

In central Mali, a deadly attack attributed to jihadists claimed the lives of over 20 civilians in Djiguibombo village, near Bandiagara, according to local officials. The incident underscores the ongoing violence and instability in the Sahel region, with Mali facing a decade-long struggle against jihadist and armed groups. The attackers reportedly killed victims through throat-cutting and shootings, leading to a devastating toll on the community. The deteriorated security situation, coupled with remote locations and limited information, often delays the confirmation of such attacks. The assailants, yet to be identified, targeted Djiguibombo village in the Mopti region, a known hotspot for groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and ISIS. The armed men surrounded the village during a wedding ceremony, resulting in chaos and a significant loss of life, predominantly men. The attack, lasting for hours, forced many residents to flee towards safety, leaving behind a grim aftermath of unburied bodies. The violence in Mali, fueled by various factions and extremist groups, has led to thousands of casualties and widespread displacement over the years. The military government that took power in 2020 following a coup has struggled to contain the escalating insecurity, with attacks persisting despite promises to address the issue. The UN mission in Mali recently concluded its 10-year deployment, coinciding with Mali's shift towards closer ties with Russia while distancing from former European allies. The region's instability has not only affected Mali but also spilled over into neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Niger, resulting in a humanitarian crisis with thousands dead and millions displaced. The perpetrators behind the Djiguibombo attack remain unknown, highlighting the challenges in combating the entrenched jihadist presence in the region.