Analysis & Reports

The U.S. proposed to expand the arms embargo on Sudan to include drones and their components during a Security Council meeting on August 25, 2026. This move aims to address the rising civilian casualties attributed to drone strikes, which have reportedly killed over 1,120 civilians in the first half of 2026. Russia and China have opposed this proposal, emphasizing the need to respect Sudan's sovereignty and avoid exacerbating the conflict.

Marie DuboisWed Aug 26 2026Loading...

Chad closed its eastern border with Sudan after Sudanese drones conducted airstrikes on supply columns near Mourdi. The strikes targeted a convoy of approximately 200 vehicles, with 70 reportedly destroyed. This escalation indicates that the border is now viewed as a potential combat zone by the Chadian military, significantly impacting logistics and supply routes in the region.

Marie DuboisTue Aug 25 2026Loading...

JNIM targets 44 mines in the Sahel, utilizing gold mining as a strategic operational base. The group controls local economies through taxation and logistical support, while conflicts related to mining occur predominantly outside the concessions. JNIM's tactics include transforming mining sites into semi-permanent bases, complicating military operations by regular forces. The situation is exacerbated by the presence of Russian forces, which do not effectively secure the area.

Marie DuboisThu Jul 30 2026Loading...

The JNIM is transforming gold mining areas in the Sahel into conflict zones, exerting control through taxation and threats. Key locations include Inata, Boungou, and Gao, with significant incidents occurring within a 10 km radius of mining sites. Governments are responding by nationalizing sites and renegotiating contracts, while the JNIM continues to adapt its tactics to maintain influence over these economically vital areas.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 24 2026Loading...

ISSP launched attacks on military positions in In-Ates and Banibangou, Niger, on June 17, 2026, resulting in heavy losses for Nigerien forces. JNIM attempted an incursion at Niamey's airport the following day. On June 30, JNIM conducted further attacks in Makalondi, Torodi, and Diagourou, alongside operations in Burkina Faso, indicating a coordinated strategy between the two jihadist groups. The situation highlights the escalating conflict in the Tillabéri region.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

Multiple attacks on military posts in Burkina Faso resulted in at least 22 fatalities, including 14 soldiers and 7 Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP). The attacks occurred in Di, Solhan, and Séguénéga, with the JNIM group claiming responsibility. This series of assaults underscores the operational vulnerabilities faced by the Burkinabè Armed Forces and the VDP amid ongoing violence in the region.

Marie DuboisWed Jul 08 2026Loading...

The Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) reported killing eight members of Al-Shabaab, including a key leader, Daqare, in Basra, Middle Shabelle, in July 2026. This operation aimed to disrupt Al-Shabaab's mortar and IED capabilities. The report indicates that the group may have retrieved bodies for burial, highlighting the operational challenges in the region. This action is part of a larger effort to weaken Al-Shabaab's influence around Mogadiscio and along the Shabelle corridor.

Marie DuboisMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

Malian, Burkinabè, and Nigerien forces conducted coordinated military operations from February 21 to March 9, 2026, eliminating over 100 terrorists. The Malian Armed Forces executed a surgical airstrike in Yanfolila, while the Burkinabè army launched a counter-offensive in Northern Sahel. Nigerien forces successfully repelled an attack on the Tahua airport. These actions reflect an intensified commitment to counter-terrorism amid evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Sahel.

Marie DuboisThu Mar 12 2026Loading...

France maintains a military presence in the Middle East, with 1,500 personnel in Djibouti and 1,000 in Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The French Armed Forces are navigating their strategic autonomy while recognizing their dependence on U.S. military support. This situation highlights the complexities of France's role in regional security and its diplomatic efforts to mitigate potential conflicts.

Marie DuboisWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

Armed men on motorcycles attacked the villages of Tungan Makeri, Konkoso, and Alissa in Borgu, Nigeria, on February 15, resulting in 46 deaths and numerous kidnappings. The attacks, attributed to groups like Lakurawa and JNIM, highlight the growing insecurity in the region, prompting local leaders to call for military intervention. This incident reflects a concerning trend of jihadist expansion in the area.

Marie DuboisMon Feb 16 2026Loading...