UN peacekeeping force in Mali speeds up withdrawal over security concerns

By Fatma Esma Arslan

DAKAR, Senegal (AA) – The UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) said Sunday that it had moved up its withdrawal from a base in the country’s north due to tensions between the government and former Tuareg rebels.

“MINUSMA has expedited its withdrawal from (the northern area of) #Ber due to the deteriorating security situation in the area & the high risks posed to our #BlueHelmets," it said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

It also urged all concerned parties to refrain from any actions that could further complicate the operation.

It added that the MINUSMA convoy that withdrew from Ber was attacked twice.

“3 wounded peacekeepers were evacuated to #Timbuktu for medical attention. Attacks against #peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law,” it added.

Local media reported that MINUSMA handed over the camp to the Malian army.

MINUSMA, which has been in the field in Mali since 2013, announced that it would withdraw completely from the country before the end of the year at the request of the Mali government.

Tensions erupted in Mali in 2012 following a failed coup and Tuareg rebellion that ultimately allowed militant groups to take over the northern half of the country.

*Writing by Gozde Bayar