Mali conflict deepens as arrests mount and rebels claim territorial gains

Mali’s conflict is intensifying as authorities arrest several current and former military officers accused of colluding with armed groups behind recent deadly attacks.

In the capital Bamako, al qaeda-linked fighters are enforcing a tightening blockade, disrupting daily life and deepening economic hardship for residents.

Meanwhile in the north, Tuareg separatists say they have taken full control of Kidal and surrounding مناطق, after Malian forces and Russian-backed fighters withdrew. Rebels also claim to have discovered mass graves in former military camps, raising serious human rights concerns.

Rights groups have previously accused multiple actors in Mali’s conflict — including government forces, armed groups, and foreign fighters — of abuses against civilians. All sides deny wrongdoing.

Across the border in Mauritania, displaced Malians watch developments closely. Some hope for peace and a return home, while others fear the growing role of foreign fighters could prolong the war.

As divisions emerge within Mali’s military and armed groups expand their reach, the situation remains volatile with no clear resolution in sight.

Al Jazeera's Nicolas Haque reports.

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