Mali Rebels Attack Northern Towns

The Malian army reported that multiple northern towns, including the strategic centers of Gao and Sévaré, came under attack from rebel forces in a coordinated new offensive.

The Azawad Liberation Front, a coalition of separatist and armed groups, claimed responsibility for the operations, marking a significant escalation in the country's restive north.

The attacks highlight the persistent instability that has plagued Mali since the central government's rupture with Tuareg separatist groups and the withdrawal of international peacekeeping forces.

The renewed violence threatens to further destabilize a region already grappling with jihadist insurgencies and humanitarian crises.