At least 10 civilians were reportedly killed after military drone strikes hit a civilian gathering in central Mali amid escalating clashes between government forces and armed groups.
Gatekeepers News reports that security and local sources said the strikes occurred during preparations for a traditional mass wedding ceremony, sparking outrage among residents who accused the Malian military of targeting civilians.
Several others were also injured in the attack, while survivors fled the area in panic. Reports indicated that the victims included women and children attending the community event.
The incident comes as Mali’s military junta intensifies aerial offensives against jihadist fighters and separatist rebels following coordinated attacks across the country in recent weeks.
The conflict has worsened since late April, with insurgent groups launching deadly assaults on military positions and key towns.
Human rights organisations and international observers have repeatedly raised concerns over rising civilian casualties linked to drone and air strikes in the Sahel region.
Reuters previously reported that government military operations in Mali and neighbouring countries have increasingly drawn scrutiny over alleged attacks on non-combatants.
