Mali blocus: Amnesty warns of dire impact on Bamako civilians

Since April 30, the capital of Mali, Bamako, has been under a blockade enforced by jihadists from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM). On May 15, Amnesty International issued a strong appeal to the armed group, urging respect for the safety and freedom of movement of civilians trapped in the city.

Unacceptable consequences for civilians

The international human rights organization condemned the blockade’s “devastating consequences” on the daily lives of residents, warning of potential “severe violations of their fundamental rights to food security, healthcare, and safety.” In a statement, Amnesty International emphasized that “attacks on civilian vehicles used for legitimate purposes are strictly prohibited under international humanitarian law.”

The blockade has already disrupted essential supply chains. On May 6, jihadists targeted a commercial convoy transporting fruits from Bamako to Bougouni. The trucks, unescorted by military forces and carrying no military personnel or equipment, were destroyed. This incident has forced multiple transport companies to suspend operations to and from the capital.

Legal obligations under scrutiny

Amnesty International stressed that all parties in an armed conflict must differentiate between combatants and civilians at all times. “The blockade and subsequent attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law and endanger thousands of innocent lives,” stated a regional director of the organization.

The blockade follows coordinated attacks on April 25 and 26 by the JNIM—aligned with Al-Qaeda—and the Azauad Liberation Front (FLA), targeting key military positions held by the ruling junta.