2025 Timbuktu attack
On June 2, 2025, jihadists from Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin attacked various military sites in Timbuktu, Mali, killing several dozen Malian soldiers but ultimately failing to seize any sites long-term. BackgroundSince the spring of 2025, JNIM has intensified their attacks on Malian forces, leading to a string of deadly attacks.[1] A week prior to the attack in Timbuktu, JNIM killed forty Malian soldiers in Dioura, and several military bases across the border in Burkina Faso were attacked by the militant group.[1] Less than a day before the Timbuktu attack, the Malian military base in Boulikessi was overrun.[2] AttackAt around 10am on June 2, several sites in the city of Timbuktu were attacked by JNIM.[3] The Timbuktu Airport, which hosts a major Malian and Wagner Group military base, was a primary target of the attacks.[4] A suicide bomber drove a car bomb near the entrance, with its explosion allowing JNIM militants to enter the airport.[4] The Russian base was hit by artillery fire, but no casualties were reported.[4] Three explosions near checkpoints to the north and east of the city in Assadi, Ber, and Arwen were caused by JNIM attacks, with the group seizing two checkpoints.[3] Images of slain soldiers' IDs and weapons were posted onto social media.[5] After the attack, the Malian government congratulated itself on having "thwarted an infiltration attempt" on the camp, while JNIM claimed to have carried out a suicide operation.[3] AftermathThe Malian army stated that fourteen jihadists were killed or injured, and 31 more were arrested.[6] According to Sahel expert Wassim Nasr, six jihadists were killed.[5] Images of the jihadists' bodies and captured vehicles were broadcast on Malian television.[3] One person was also lynched by residents of the city.[7] JNIM claimed responsibility for the attack and stated that dozens of Malian soldiers were killed or wounded.[3] Neither group mentioned their own losses.[3] AFP reported that at least 30 Malian soldiers were killed and several more were missing following the attack, with a local elected official saying at least 60 were killed.[6] References
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