AU urges swift international response as Mali crisis worsens

The African Union has called for urgent international action in response to the escalating crisis in Mali, where mounting terrorist attacks and worsening humanitarian conditions threaten regional stability.

Expressing deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation, the African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf warned in a statement that continued blockades and disruptions by armed groups have severely restricted access to essential supplies and services, leaving thousands of civilians in dire need.

"The African Union is gravely concerned by the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians, which has resulted in unacceptable loss of life and deepened insecurity across affected regions," Youssouf said.

"We stand in full solidarity with the government and people of Mali and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting peace, security, and development across the Sahel," he said.

Youssouf also condemned the recent spate of kidnappings in Mali, including the abduction of three Egyptian nationals, describing such acts as grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

He called for the "immediate and unconditional release" of all hostages.

The escalation in violence in Mali has forced the government to shut down schools and universities, compounding the country's power, humanitarian, and security crises, according to local media reports.

In light of the worsening situation, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France have advised their nationals to leave Mali and warned against travel to the West African nation.

Youssouf urged the international community to adopt a robust, coordinated, and sustained approach to counter terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel.

He emphasized the need for greater intelligence sharing, regional cooperation, and targeted support to affected states, in line with the communiqué of the AU's 1304th ministerial meeting held on September 30.

"The challenges facing Mali and the wider Sahel require urgent, collective action," he said. "The African Union stands ready to provide the necessary assistance to help restore peace, stability, and development in this vital region."

Large parts of northern and central Mali remain affected by frequent ambushes, village raids, and roadside bomb attacks, the local media reports.

Armed groups have reportedly imposed blockades on key towns and rural areas, cutting off supplies of food, fuel, and medicine.