JNIM Blocks Bamako, Attacks Fuel Supplies; US Advises Citizens to Leave

As of November 5, 2025, the situation in Bamako, the capital city of Mali, has escalated significantly due to the actions of the jihadist group Jama"at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM). The group has initiated an active blockade of the city, targeting fuel supplies and convoys carrying essential goods and supplies. In light of these developments, several countries, including the United States, have issued urgent advisories for their citizens to evacuate Mali.

Key Details

JNIM, an extremist group linked to al-Qaeda, has intensified its operations around Bamako, effectively controlling key routes and disrupting supply chains. The group has been particularly active in attacking fuel supplies, a move that has garnered local support, indicating a growing influence in the region. Reports indicate that JNIM has targeted convoys transporting almost all types of goods heading towards the capital, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation.

According to a map released by Rerum Novarum, there are eight primary routes leading into Bamako, each with varying levels of security:

• Partially Controlled Routes: Four of the routes are under partial control of JNIM, including RN5, RN7, RN27, and RN3.
• Contested Routes: Three routes are currently contested, namely RN24, RR6, and RN6, indicating ongoing skirmishes and instability in these areas.
• Reliable Supply Route: The RN26 highway remains the only reliable supply route into Bamako, highlighting the critical nature of this corridor for the movement of goods and resources.

In response to the deteriorating security situation, the United States government has advised its citizens to leave Mali immediately. This advisory reflects concerns over the safety of foreign nationals amid increasing violence and instability in the region.

Background

The rise of JNIM has been a significant factor in the ongoing conflict in Mali, which has seen various extremist groups vying for control in the region. The group"s activities have not only disrupted local economies but have also posed serious threats to the stability of the Malian government. The international community has been closely monitoring the situation, with various nations expressing concern over the implications of JNIM"s actions for regional security.

The situation in Mali is further complicated by the broader geopolitical dynamics in West Africa, where various militant groups have exploited political instability and economic challenges. The United Nations and other international organizations have been involved in efforts to stabilize the region, but the effectiveness of these measures remains in question as violence continues to escalate.

What"s Next

The blockade of Bamako by JNIM and the subsequent attacks on supply routes could lead to a humanitarian crisis if the situation does not improve. The disruption of fuel supplies and essential goods may result in shortages, affecting the daily lives of residents in the capital. Furthermore, the advisories from foreign governments for their citizens to leave Mali may lead to increased pressure on the Malian government to restore security and stability.

As previously reported, the international community is on high alert regarding the developments in Mali, with potential implications for regional security. The situation remains fluid, and further escalations could prompt a more robust international response to address the growing threat posed by extremist groups in the region.