Tensions are mounting in northern Mali as the Front de Libération de l’Azawad (FLA) intensifies its calls for a general mobilisation. The separatist movement, which first appealed for mass recruitment in late May through its defence chief, is now urging the local population to join its combat ranks. This step is widely seen as a precursor to a large-scale offensive targeting government forces and their allies.

Call to arms against Bamako and Africa Corps

The FLA’s military command has urged “all sons of Azawad” to deploy immediately to the front lines. This directive follows a general mobilisation decree issued at the end of May. According to official statements from the movement, the aim is to prepare what it calls the “second phase of the liberation of Azawad’s towns.” The armed group explicitly targets urban centres currently held by the Malian armed forces (FAMA) and detachments of the Russian paramilitary company Africa Corps (formerly the Wagner Group), which actively supports the Bamako authorities in the region.

Towards an escalation of the low-intensity conflict

The move signals a likely resumption of direct hostilities. Northern Mali has experienced high volatility since the breakdown of the Algiers Accord and the recapture of major towns by the Malian army in late 2023. By announcing a “second phase,” the FLA indicates its intention to shift from guerrilla tactics and harassment to larger operations aimed at regaining control of key localities. The security situation remains extremely fragile in the area, with autonomist movements targeting Russo-Malian forces on one side, and Bamako conducting counter-terrorism and stabilisation operations on the other. This has created a strategic deadlock in the Azawad region, where civilians continue to bear the heaviest toll.