JNIM’s Mali Offensive and the Limits of Counterterrorism in the Sahel

AI Summary

The recent joint offensive by the JNIM and Azawad Liberation Front showcases the operational challenges of counterterrorism strategies in the Sahel region. This offensive, conducted in April, resulted in significant territorial gains and heightened the instability of the region.

The Combating Terrorism Center at West Point’s recent report,  “Developments in the Sahel: An Interview with Wassim Nasr” presents journalist and Soufan Center fellow Wassim Nasr’s analysis of the late April 2026 JNIM-FLA joint offensive in Mali and its regional consequences. JNIM and the Azawad Liberation Front executed a coordinated nationwide offensive on April 25, recaptured Kidal, and killed Malian … Read more The post JNIM’s Mali Offensive and the Limits of Counterterrorism in the Sahel appeared first on Small Wars Journal by Arizona State University.