Rapid Expansion: Islamic State Group's Territorial Surge in Mali

Islamic State extremists have nearly doubled their territory in Mali within a year, taking advantage of the stalled implementation of a 2015 peace agreement and the perceived weakness of armed groups. Al-Qaida-linked Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) is also vying for leadership in northern Mali amidst sustained violence and attacks. The armed groups that signed the peace deal fear its collapse without UN mediation, potentially leading to another uprising. Mali's military rulers are observing the confrontation between the IS group and al-Qaida affiliates, with some believing it will benefit them over time, while others argue that the terrorists are growing stronger each day. The report also highlights the competition for control over trade and trafficking routes, drug trafficking in the region, and persistent conflict-related sexual violence.