Us considers military strikes in Mali amid rising militant threats
The administration of former United States President Donald Trump is weighing the possibility of expanding its military operations in Africa, with Mali potentially becoming the next target. According to insider discussions, Washington is evaluating airstrikes against the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an Al-Qaïda-linked militant group that has grown significantly stronger in the region over the past four years, particularly in the wake of France’s withdrawal from Mali.
While no final decision has been made, internal debates within the Trump administration are intensifying. Sebastian Gorka, a counterterrorism advisor to the National Security Council, is among the most vocal proponents of military intervention. However, other officials remain skeptical, questioning whether such an operation would yield sustainable results. If implemented, these strikes would mark the eighth country targeted by U.S. military action during Trump’s second term.
The White House has yet to confirm the possibility of air strikes. However, a senior administration official revealed that the U.S. is actively encouraging North and West African nations to bolster their counterterrorism capabilities by purchasing American military equipment and services. The official also described the threat posed by terrorism in the Sahel as a “multinational challenge”.
The JNIM has emerged as one of the most formidable armed groups in West Africa, with its influence stretching across multiple coastal nations. Analysts warn that the group’s growing strength in recent years is directly linked to the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel.
Potential risks of military intervention in Mali
Security experts are raising serious concerns about the potential consequences of U.S. military involvement in Mali. Corinne Dufka, an independent Sahel specialist, cautioned that eliminating JNIM leaders could backfire, stating: “By helping Malian authorities target JNIM’s leadership, the U.S. might undermine efforts to deradicalize and demobilize one of the world’s most sophisticated jihadist organizations.”
Critics argue that air strikes may fail to produce lasting change on the ground. They point to France’s decade-long military presence in the region, followed by five years of Russian involvement, neither of which succeeded in curbing the spread of militant activity.
Another major concern is the potential for unintended consequences, including the strengthening of rival groups such as the Islamic State in the Sahel, which could exploit the JNIM’s weakened position. Additionally, there are fears of escalating tensions with Russian forces already operating in Mali, where Moscow has offered military support to several African nations—including Guinea, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic—with mixed results.
A U.S. official commented on Russia’s counterterrorism efforts in Africa, stating: “We hope African nations will take note of Russia’s underwhelming performance against terrorism.”