Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
IS-Sahel claims 19 deaths in Nigeria — Sokoto and Kebbi become the new front of 2026
Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) claimed responsibility for ambushes on Nigerian military patrols on May 15, 2026, resulting in 19 deaths, including 7 soldiers and 1 police officer. The attacks occurred near Runji and Giro Masa in Kebbi and Sokoto states, marking a significant expansion of ISSP's operational area into northwestern Nigeria. The Nigerian government is responding by seeking increased anti-jihadist cooperation with Benin and Niger.
Marie DuboisSat Jul 04 2026Loading...JNIM and the Islamic State Gain Ground in Benin — 80% More Cross-Border Attacks
Jihadist groups JNIM and ISSP have significantly increased their operational presence in northern Benin, with attacks rising by 80% between 2024 and 2025, resulting in over 1,000 deaths. The region is becoming a strategic area for these groups, who are establishing bases and routes for operations. The Sahel Alliance Battalion, consisting of 5,000 troops, is deemed inadequate to counter this escalating threat effectively.
Marie DuboisMon Jun 15 2026Loading...
Nigeria: the bombing of Jilli reignites the debate on the conduct of the anti-terrorism fight in the Sahel
On April 11, 2026, the Nigerian Army conducted an airstrike on the Jilli market in Yobe State, resulting in over 100 civilian deaths and at least 35 serious injuries. Local reports indicate a total of around 200 victims, highlighting the devastating impact of the strike. The market was reportedly controlled by Boko Haram, raising concerns about the military's engagement rules and the humanitarian implications of such operations.
Marie DuboisSun Apr 19 2026Loading...Airstrikes on the Jilli Market and Flintlock Exercise 2026: West Africa and the Sahel at a Crossroads
On April 11, 2026, the Nigerian Air Force conducted an airstrike on the Jilli market in Yobe, resulting in up to 200 civilian casualties. Concurrently, the Flintlock 2026 multinational military exercise began in Sirte, Libya, involving over thirty nations under AFRICOM. These events highlight the ongoing security challenges in West Africa and the Sahel, exacerbated by the withdrawal of Western forces and increasing jihadist activity.
Marie DuboisTue Apr 14 2026Loading...Unprecedented Coordination of JNIM in Burkina Faso: Analysis of a New Tactical Phase
Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) conducted coordinated attacks in Burkina Faso in February 2026, targeting military bases and civilian markets across multiple locations including Bilanga and Titao. These operations resulted in over 180 fatalities, including soldiers and civilians, and involved hundreds of fighters, indicating a significant escalation in jihadist activities. The attacks demonstrate JNIM's enhanced operational capabilities and strategic intent to undermine state authority and disrupt local economies.
Marie DuboisFri Feb 20 2026Loading...
