Mali announced on Monday that they successfully eliminated a high-ranking Islamist commander responsible for a deadly attack in 2017 that resulted in the deaths of American and Nigerien soldiers. The U.S. State Department had offered a $5 million reward for the capture of the commander, Abu Huzeifa, a member of an Islamic State affiliate.
The attack in Tongo Tongo, Niger, marked a significant loss for American troops in Africa since the events in Somalia in 1993. Mali’s armed forces confirmed the operation that led to the neutralization of the terrorist leader in the Liptako region, shared by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
The collaboration between these three countries, united against extremist violence under the Alliance of Sahel States, has faced criticism for its political motives. While the U.S. government is investigating Abu Huzeifa’s reported death, it is known that he was one of eight men wanted for the Tongo Tongo attack.
Following the demise of Abu Huzeifa, only one suspect remains at large. The Islamic State Sahel Province, formerly led by Al-Sahraoui, continues to pose a threat in the border regions, despite significant losses in leadership. Mali’s state television broadcasted images of the slain commander, emphasizing the success of their military efforts.
The conflict in Mali dates back to 2012, with ongoing challenges despite international interventions. The recent coup further destabilized the country, allowing the junta to seize power. The fight against extremism in the region remains a complex and evolving struggle.
2024-04-30 14:32:07
Link from www.nytimes.com