The Battle of Anéfis and the New Concept of War in the Desert

Executive Summary

The coordinated JNIM-FLA offensive on 4 July marked a new stage in the Sahel conflict. Anéfis was the main objective because it is a key logistical hub linking Gao and Kidal. The attacks across Mali aimed to delay reinforcements and isolate the Anéfis base. JNIM and the FLA entered parts of Anéfis and captured several positions. The Malian Army avoided a major loss through a planned tactical withdrawal. A reinforcement convoy later reached the town and stabilized the front. The clashes exposed the importance of logistics, mobility, and weather conditions in military planning. The fighting highlighted the growing role of drones in the Sahel. Kamikaze drones and UCAVs were widely used by both sides. The conflict also expanded beyond Mali with the involvement of AES members, Africa Corps forces, and local militias. Although Anéfis remained under government control, later ambushes showed that JNIM and the FLA still retain a strong offensive capability. The conflict is becoming longer, more regional, and more technology driven.