Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
JNIM and Islamic State clash in Niger in 2026 — three fronts threaten Nigeria
JNIM and ISSP engaged in clashes in Petel Kolé, Tillabéri, Niger, in April 2026, impacting supply routes to Burkina Faso and Benin. The conflict reflects a broader struggle for control over key transit areas in the Sahel. Concurrently, JNIM has demonstrated increased operational capacity in Mali, while the situation in the Lake Chad basin remains interconnected with ongoing violence in the region.
Marie DuboisSat May 30 2026Loading...The Islamic State strikes JNIM in Pétel Kolé — 35 dead and a new front in Niger
The Islamic State of the Sahel Province (ISSP) attacked a base of the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) near Petel Kole, Niger, in early April, claiming to have killed 35 fighters. This incident marks a significant escalation in the Sahel conflict, as it opens a new front in Niger and indicates a shift in the dynamics between jihadist groups in the region. The ISSP also seized weapons and motorcycles from JNIM, further complicating the security situation for the Nigerien government.
Marie DuboisSat May 30 2026Loading...Borno saves 92 hostages — ISWAP tests Nigerian rapid response after 175 deaths in its ranks
On May 23, 2026, the Nigerian Armed Forces rescued 92 civilians from ISWAP captors on the Buratai-Kamuya road in Borno. This operation followed the reported deaths of 175 ISWAP fighters in recent U.S.-Nigerian joint strikes. The insurgents demonstrated tactical maneuvers by using IEDs during their retreat, indicating ongoing threats in the region.
Marie DuboisFri May 29 2026Loading...The JNIM Strangles Bamako in Mali in 2026 — Tabaski Reveals the Economic War
JNIM imposed a blockade on roads leading to Bamako in May 2026, significantly increasing the price of sheep and impacting local families ahead of Tabaski. The blockade has disrupted supply routes, forcing the military to divert resources for escorting convoys. While supplies still reach Bamako, the reduced flow creates economic pressure, indicating a strategic shift in the conflict dynamics in Mali.
Marie DuboisFri May 29 2026Loading...The Colombians of RSF in Darfur in 2026 — private war reaches El Fasher
Colombian military contractors are operating alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, Sudan, participating in frontline combat and drone operations. U.S. sanctions have targeted networks recruiting these contractors, indicating a significant shift in the operational capabilities of the RSF. The presence of these contractors enhances the RSF's military effectiveness, particularly in drone warfare and coordination of military actions.
Marie DuboisThu May 28 2026Loading...
Nigeria and the United States Strike ISWAP — 175 Fighters Killed Around Lake Chad
Joint airstrikes by Nigerian Armed Forces and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) killed 175 ISWAP fighters around Lake Chad from May 16 to 19, 2026. The operation targeted high-ranking jihadist Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, indicating a shift from advisory to active military involvement by U.S. forces. The strikes aimed to disrupt ISWAP's territorial and logistical capabilities, although the long-term impact on the group's operations remains uncertain.
Marie DuboisThu May 28 2026Loading...The JNIM Strikes Kourou Koualou in Benin in 2026 — 4 Soldiers Killed and the Coastal Lock Cracks
JNIM attacked two positions of the Beninese army in Kourou Koualou on the night of May 25-26, 2026, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers. The attackers arrived on motorcycles from the Burkina Faso border, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region. This incident tests the new Beninese presidency's security measures and military readiness.
Marie DuboisWed May 27 2026Loading...Nigeria 2026 — Boko Haram and ISWAP replace 82 students at the center of the war
Boko Haram and ISWAP abducted at least 82 students from schools in Mussa, Borno State, and Oyo State between May 13 and May 15, 2026. The Nigerian police attributed the attacks to these militant groups, indicating a significant threat to civilian safety. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Nigerian military in securing educational institutions despite reported successes against ISIS.
Marie DuboisWed May 27 2026Loading...Boko Haram forces Chad to extend three months of emergency at the lake in 2026
On May 25, 2026, Chad extended the state of emergency in the Lake province for three months following an attack by Boko Haram that resulted in 23 soldiers killed and 26 wounded. The government aims to enhance security controls and limit movement in sensitive areas, as Boko Haram maintains pressure in the region, complicating military operations.
Marie DuboisTue May 26 2026Loading...
The JNIM strikes five villages in Mali in 2026 — 20 dead and the Bankass line wavers
JNIM launched an attack on five villages near Bankass and Bandiagara on May 21, 2026, resulting in approximately 20 casualties, including civilians and dozo hunters. The assault occurred between 5 PM and 6 PM, targeting areas close to Bankass, demonstrating the group's operational capability. Local dozo hunters attempted to defend against the attackers, but the Malian army did not respond to the incident, raising concerns about security in the region.
Marie DuboisTue May 26 2026Loading...Nigeria 2026 — 92 hostages released in Borno and 175 ISWAP fighters struck with Washington
On May 23, 2026, Nigerian Armed Forces rescued 92 hostages from an armed group in Borno while conducting operations against ISWAP. Concurrently, U.S. and Nigerian airstrikes reportedly killed 175 ISWAP fighters. The operation highlights ongoing military efforts to combat ISWAP and protect civilians in the region.
Marie DuboisMon May 25 2026Loading...
The ADF kills 17 civilians in Mambasa in 2026 — the Islamic State pushes towards the mines of Haut-Uele
On May 19, 2026, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) killed at least 17 civilians in an attack in Alima, Mambasa. The assailants subsequently moved through Peleki and Manyama, setting homes ablaze. This incident marks a significant escalation in ADF activities, as they seek to establish escape routes in the region, indicating a shift in their operational strategy.
Marie DuboisMon May 25 2026Loading...Garbougna in Niger counts 67 dead in 2026 — JNIM challenges the Islamic State in the Sahel
On May 14, 2026, heavily armed assailants attacked a military engineering unit in Garbougna, Tillabéri, resulting in 67 casualties, including military personnel and civilians. The JNIM claimed responsibility for the assault, which targeted a strategically important bridge construction site. This incident underscores the ongoing jihadist threat in the region and the challenges faced by the Nigerien state in maintaining control.
Marie DuboisSun May 24 2026Loading...
JNIM and FLA tighten their grip on Bamako in 2026 — 700 tank trucks reveal Malian fragility
JNIM and FLA exerted significant pressure on Bamako's supply routes as of April 25, 2026, following the death of General Sadio Camara. A convoy of 700 fuel trucks was escorted from Côte d'Ivoire to support the capital, indicating logistical challenges. The coalition's actions have destabilized the Malian junta, particularly after the loss of Kidal and Tessalit, forcing military leaders to reassess their strategies.
Marie DuboisSun May 24 2026Loading...Cabo Delgado counts 26 dead in May 2026 — the Islamic State tests the depth of Mozambique
Islamic State fighters attacked Messanja in Chiúre, Cabo Delgado on May 17, 2026, burning houses and a church, leading to 26 reported deaths. The group has regained mobility, causing civilian displacement and testing the southern margins of Cabo Delgado. Local militias, known as Naparama, attempted to resist but faced significant challenges.
Marie DuboisSat May 23 2026Loading...Nigeria and the United States kill 175 Islamic State fighters — Lake Chad becomes an American theater again
On May 19, 2026, coordinated airstrikes by the Nigerian Armed Forces and U.S. Africa Command killed 175 ISIS fighters in Metele, Borno, Nigeria. This operation marks a significant escalation in U.S. military involvement in the region, transitioning from technical support to offensive actions. The strikes also resulted in the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a prominent ISIS leader, indicating a targeted approach against key figures in the organization.
Marie DuboisSat May 23 2026Loading...
Terra Industries in Ghana aims for 50,000 drones and changes Sahelian security 2026
Terra Industries is constructing a drone manufacturing facility in Accra, Ghana, with a goal of producing 50,000 drones annually by 2028. This initiative aims to enhance local security capabilities against armed groups in the Sahel region. The facility will focus on producing surveillance and tactical drones, addressing the operational needs of security forces in West Africa.
Marie DuboisFri May 22 2026Loading...
Mali 2026 — the army and Africa Corps cross the threshold of the RBK-500
The Malian Army conducted airstrikes last week in Oubder and Tadjmart, utilizing RBK-500 cluster munitions. These strikes are part of anti-terror operations aimed at denying territory to armed groups. The use of such munitions raises concerns about long-term civilian safety due to unexploded ordnance. The involvement of Africa Corps, a paramilitary force linked to Russia, highlights the complex military dynamics in the region.
Marie DuboisFri May 22 2026Loading...AFRICOM warns of 10 ISIS and al-Qaeda networks in Africa after 75% withdrawal
AFRICOM warns of the increasing presence of ISIS and al-Qaeda networks in Africa, particularly following a 75% reduction in its regional military posture. General Dagvin Anderson emphasized that the epicenter of global terrorism has shifted to Africa, with at least 10 terrorist organizations now operating on the continent. The report also notes the rising use of drones by insurgents in Mali and the growing connections between various jihadist groups across the region.
Marie DuboisThu May 21 2026Loading...27 Naparama killed in Mozambique in 2026 — the Islamic State pushes towards Palma
On May 17, 2026, 27 members of the Naparama militia were killed in a twelve-hour engagement with ISIS-affiliated insurgents in Katapua, Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. The confrontation began after the insurgents set fire to the village of Messanja and ended when they crossed the Megaruma River. This incident marks the heaviest loss for the Naparama militia in a single action, highlighting the operational challenges they face against better-armed jihadists.
Marie DuboisThu May 21 2026Loading...
