JNIM Blocks Bamako, Prompting Several Countries to Advise Citizens to Leave

By Zara Williams

Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025

The situation in Bamako, the capital of Mali, has escalated significantly as the militant group Jama"at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) has initiated an active blockade of the city. This blockade has been accompanied by a series of attacks on fuel supplies, which have gained traction among the local population. Additionally, JNIM has targeted convoys transporting various goods and supplies destined for the capital, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation.

Key Details

JNIM, an alliance of several jihadist groups in the Sahel region, has been increasingly aggressive in its operations around Bamako. The group has reportedly gained control over several key routes leading into the city. According to a map released by Rerum Novarum, there are eight different routes into Bamako, categorized based on their current status:

• Partially Under JNIM Control: Four routes are reported to be partially under the control of JNIM, which include RN5, RN7, RN27, and RN3.
• Contested Routes: Three routes are currently contested, namely RN24, RR6, and RN6.
• Reliable Supply Route: The only reliable supply route into Bamako is the RN26 highway, which remains unaffected by JNIM"s blockade.

In light of the deteriorating security situation, several countries have issued advisories for their citizens to leave Mali immediately. Notably, the United States has been vocal in its warnings, urging American nationals to evacuate the country as tensions rise.

Background

The rise of JNIM in Mali is part of a broader trend of increasing instability in the Sahel region, where various militant groups have exploited weak governance and ongoing conflicts. The group"s blockade of Bamako represents a significant escalation in their operations, which have included attacks on military and civilian targets alike. The situation poses a serious threat not only to the safety of residents in Bamako but also to the humanitarian conditions in the region.

As previously reported, the Malian junta has been engaged in negotiations with JNIM, which may have implications for the blockade and overall security in the area. Recent developments indicate that there may be efforts to lift the blockade temporarily, as seen in earlier coverage of the Malian junta"s agreements with JNIM.

What"s Next

The ongoing blockade and attacks by JNIM are likely to have significant implications for the humanitarian situation in Bamako and surrounding areas. With the capital"s supply routes under threat, the availability of essential goods, including food and fuel, may become increasingly limited. The international community will need to monitor the situation closely, as further escalations could lead to a larger crisis in Mali.

As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for foreign governments and humanitarian organizations to assess the safety of their personnel and citizens in Mali. The potential for increased violence and instability necessitates a coordinated response to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected by the conflict.