In recent months, the Sahel region has witnessed a significant escalation in jihadist activities, particularly by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate. This surge in violence has raised concerns about the potential emergence of a West African caliphate.
JNIM militants launched a coordinated assault on the Malian military base in Boulikessi, near the Burkina Faso border. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 60 soldiers and the wounding of 40 others. The Malian army confirmed the incident but did not provide specific casualty details, stating that soldiers fought “to their last breath.” This assault is part of a broader campaign by JNIM, which has intensified its operations across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, leading to over 400 troop fatalities in May and June alone.
The group‘s tactics have evolved, with JNIM shifting from rural guerrilla warfare to targeting urban centers. This strategy aims to establish Islamic rule across the Sahel and potentially extend into coastal West Africa. Analysts have noted an increase in the sophistication of JNIM’s operations, including the use of anti-aircraft weapons and drones. The group’s influence over local communities has also grown, often presenting itself as a protector and provider of religious legitimacy.
In Burkina Faso, JNIM’s activities have been particularly devastating. On May 11, 2025, the group attacked the Djibo military camp in the Sahel region, resulting in the deaths of at least 60 soldiers. The assault also led to the destruction of the camp and the looting of military equipment. This attack highlights the growing strength and operational freedom of JNIM within Burkina Faso.
The spread of JNIM’s influence is not confined to Mali and Burkina Faso. The group has extended its reach into northern Benin and Togo, posing heightened risks for countries with weaker counterterrorism infrastructure. This expansion underscores the group’s ambition to establish a broader caliphate across West Africa.
The intensification of JNIM’s attacks has been accompanied by political shifts in the region. Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have distanced themselves from Western allies, increasingly relying on Russian support. This realignment has further complicated the security landscape, as regional states grapple with internal challenges and external pressures.
The escalating violence and territorial gains by JNIM have raised alarms about the stability of the Sahel region. The group’s ability to conduct sophisticated attacks and expand its influence suggests a growing threat to regional and international security. The international community faces a complex challenge in addressing the multifaceted dynamics of the Sahel’s security environment.
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