Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Chad closes its border with Sudan — Khartoum's drones open a new front in Darfur in 2026

Chad closes its border with Sudan — Khartoum's drones open a new front in Darfur in 2026

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

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 DuboisMarie DuboisTue Aug 25 2026
The JNIM Targets 44 Mines in the Sahel by 2026 — Gold Becomes a Battlefield

The JNIM Targets 44 Mines in the Sahel by 2026 — Gold Becomes a Battlefield

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

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 DuboisMarie DuboisThu Jul 30 2026
44 mines in Central Sahel under pressure — JNIM turns gold into a battlefield

44 mines in Central Sahel under pressure — JNIM turns gold into a battlefield

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

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 DuboisMarie DuboisFri Jul 24 2026
Tillabéri Under Double Offensive — JNIM and ISSP Strike Niger in June 2026

Tillabéri Under Double Offensive — JNIM and ISSP Strike Niger in June 2026

Military OperationsCasualties & LossesLogisticsHybrid

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 DuboisMarie DuboisFri Jul 10 2026

The Alliance of Sahel States Facing the Jihadist Challenge: Between Tactical Successes and Strategic Realignments

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

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 DuboisMarie DuboisThu Mar 12 2026