Paris: France has urged its citizens to leave Mali as soon as possible due to an ongoing blockade by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-linked group. The blockade has been in place since September, targeting fuel tankers and severely disrupting the flow of imported goods from neighboring Senegal and the Ivory Coast. This disruption has significantly impacted daily life in Bamako and other regions across the West African country.

According to France24.com, the blockade has exacerbated existing challenges within Mali, causing shortages of essential goods and increasing tensions among the local population. The French government’s advisory for its citizens to evacuate underscores the severity of the situation and the risks posed by JNIM’s activities. This move comes as the security situation in Mali continues to deteriorate, with armed groups exerting control over key routes and infrastructure.

The situation has also drawn international attention, as Mali remains a crucial area in the global fight against terrorism. The blockade by JNIM highlights the persistent threat posed by militant groups in the region, further complicating efforts to stabilize the country. France’s call for its citizens to leave reflects a broader concern for their safety amid escalating tensions and uncertainty in Mali.