Mali Strikes Militants Blocking Fuel to Bamako

Mali’s military conducted airstrikes in the Kayes region on September 7, 2025, targeting al Qaeda-linked militants from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) who are attempting to block fuel supplies to the capital, Bamako. The operations aim to weaken the group’s growing influence in the Sahel.

Militant Blockade Sparks Action

On September 4, a JNIM spokesperson announced a blockade on fuel imports to Bamako, also restricting movement in the western towns of Kayes and Nioro, near Senegal and Mauritania.

Since then, militants have stopped and emptied fuel trucks, disrupting key supply routes. A Nioro resident reported these incidents, highlighting the blockade’s impact.

Djenabou Cisse, a researcher at the Foundation for Strategic Research, said, “JNIM is trying to choke Bamako and weaken the government.” The group aims to encircle cities and stir public unrest against Mali’s military rulers, who seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021.

Military Response

The Malian army conducted operations in Diema and Nioro, including airstrikes, as confirmed by a colonel on state television on September 7.

Soldiers also freed hostages held by militants. The military’s actions are part of efforts to counter JNIM’s increasing attacks on Mali’s infrastructure.

Rising Tensions and Disruptions

JNIM’s actions have disrupted transport, with some companies halting operations on the Bamako-Dakar route and the Bamako-Segou road, according to a Malian truckers’ union official who spoke anonymously for safety.

On September 5, six Senegalese truck drivers were kidnapped by a jihadist group but were released the next day, a Senegalese union spokesperson confirmed.

Since May 2025, JNIM has targeted businesses in Kayes, including cement and sugar factories and mines run by companies like Barrick Mining and B2Gold.

A Bamako-based security analyst, speaking anonymously, said the group’s quick enforcement of the blockade shows its growing power and intent to undermine the government.

What’s Next?

Mali’s military faces mounting pressure to restore stability as JNIM’s attacks intensify. The blockade and ongoing violence could further strain the country’s economy and fuel public discontent, challenging the junta’s control.

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