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Bamako accuses Algiers of backing terrorism following a recent drone incident near their shared border. Mali has escalated diplomatic tensions with Algeria, alleging that Algiers is actively supporting and enabling terrorist activities. This accusation comes after Algerian forces downed a Malian drone last week, sparking a heated dispute between the neighbouring nations.
Heightening Diplomatic Rift
Mali’s foreign ministry issued a robust statement on Sunday, directly contradicting Algeria’s justification that the unmanned aerial vehicle had breached its airspace. Bamako refuted Algiers’ explanation, asserting that the drone was operating within Malian territory when it was targeted.
“Hostile Action” Claim
The Malian statement characterized the downing of the drone as a “hostile, premeditated action,” further inflaming the diplomatic row. In response, Algeria dismissed Mali’s accusations as “lacking seriousness” and not warranting a formal reply, escalating the war of words between the two nations.
Separatist Conflict Context
The incident unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing conflict in northern Mali, where the Malian armed forces are engaged in operations against ethnic Tuareg separatists. These separatist groups maintain a significant presence in Tinzaoutin, a town situated on both sides of the Mali-Algeria frontier. The drone was reportedly operating in this sensitive border region.
Recalled Ambassadors and Rising Tensions
The drone incident marks a considerable escalation in already strained diplomatic relations. Mali, alongside its allies Niger and Burkina Faso within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have recalled their ambassadors from Algiers, signaling a deepening crisis.
Alliance of Sahel States’ Condemnation
The AES, a regional bloc formed last year by the three junta-led nations, issued a joint statement condemning Algeria’s actions. They asserted that shooting down the drone hindered efforts to “neutralize a terrorist group” allegedly planning attacks against AES member states. This statement underscores the regional implications of the escalating dispute.
Mali’s Formal Complaint and Security Group Withdrawal
In a further demonstration of its displeasure, Mali summoned the Algerian ambassador in Bamako to formally protest the incident. Bamako announced it would lodge a formal complaint with “international bodies” and declared its withdrawal from a regional security grouping that includes Algeria, signifying a major shift in regional cooperation.
Algeria Denies Allegations, Cites Diversionary Tactics
Algeria responded to Mali and the AES statements on Monday, expressing “deep dismay.” Algiers characterized Mali’s accusations as an attempt to divert attention from Bamako’s internal challenges, further deepening the divide between the two countries.
Conflicting Accounts of Airspace Violation
Last Wednesday, Algeria acknowledged its forces had downed an “armed reconnaissance drone” near Tinzaoutin, claiming it had “penetrated our airspace over a distance of 2km.” However, the Malian junta refuted Algeria’s claim of airspace violation, stating that the drone’s debris was located 9.5km inside Malian territory, directly contradicting Algiers’ version of events.
Algeria Details Drone Trajectory
Providing further details on Monday, Algeria elaborated that the drone had initially entered its airspace, then exited before “returning on an attack trajectory,” suggesting a perceived threat that necessitated military action. This explanation attempts to justify the downing of the drone and counter Mali’s accusations.
Historical Accusations and Strained Relations
Mali has a history of accusing Algeria of providing refuge to Tuareg armed groups operating in the region. While Algeria previously played a key role as a mediator in the long-standing conflict between Mali and separatists, relations have deteriorated significantly since the military takeover in Bamako in 2020.
Algeria’s Border Security Measures
Algeria has recently reinforced its troop deployments along its borders. This measure is purportedly aimed at preventing the movement of militants and weaponry associated with jihadist groups active in Mali and other parts of the Sahel region, highlighting Algeria’s security concerns in the volatile regional context.