Catholic Bishops in Mali have expressed their sorrow following the terrorist attacks in Bamako, which left at least 77 dead and over 255 injured. The attacks, claimed by the Islamist group JNIM, targeted military and police installations. The bishops condemned the violence and called for prayers for peace, while the UN Security Council denounced the acts as heinous. The situation reflects worsening security in the Sahel region, further complicated by Mali’s shift away from French support towards Russian cooperation.

In response to the catastrophic terrorist attacks that unfolded in Bamako on September 17, Catholic Bishops in Mali have voiced their deep sorrow and solidarity with the victims and their bereaved families. These attacks, which were aimed at various targets, including military and police facilities as well as the Bamako airport, resulted in the deaths of at least 77 individuals and left over 255 others injured. The assaults were executed by the Islamist militant organization Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), linked to al-Qaeda. The jihadists disseminated a video on social media demonstrating their actions, which included an al-Qaeda flag hoisted over the airport and a terrorist igniting a fire in the engine of the presidential aircraft. Following the assaults, JNIM openly claimed responsibility for what they termed a “specific operation” against the military airport and a gendarmerie training base. The bishops’ conference of Mali expressed profound sadness regarding the horrific attacks, offering support to the Malian government during this challenging period and commending the bravery of the armed forces and the broader Malian populace in their fight for national unity and sovereignty. In their statement, the bishops encouraged the nation to engage in prayers for peace, emphasizing that “peace is a gift from God and the fruit of the work of men.” The UN Security Council has roundedly condemned the attacks, describing them as “heinous” and extending condolences to the victims’ families and the transitional government of Mali. They reaffirmed that terrorism, in any guise, represents a grave threat to both international peace and security and emphasized the necessity of holding accountable those who perpetrate, organize, finance, and sponsor acts of terrorism. These assaults accentuate the deteriorating security landscape in Mali and the wider Sahel region, emerging against the backdrop of accusations directed towards Ukraine by the Alliance of Sahel States for allegedly supporting terrorism. Furthermore, Mali’s recent termination of military agreements with France and its pivot towards Russia represents a significant geopolitical shift reflecting discontent with historical colonial ties and frustrations towards Western policies. As the region grapples with decreased military cooperation and increased jihadist advancement, organizations like Aid to the Church in Need warn about the prospects for Christians in the Sahel under potential imposition of Sharia law. With this ongoing turmoil, the Christian community in Mali finds solace only in prayer for peace to return. As the region continues to confront these substantial challenges, it is imperative that national and international discourse centers around finding sustainable solutions to restore stability and safety.

In recent years, Mali and the greater Sahel region have seen an alarming rise in terrorist activities, primarily attributed to Islamist militant groups seeking to impose extremist ideologies. The international community, particularly Western nations, has been involved in combating these threats. However, the relationship between Mali and former colonial powers, particularly France, has soured, leading to a re-evaluation of alliances and military cooperation. The United Nations and other international bodies have condemned the resurgence of violence and emphasized the need for collective security measures.

The ongoing violence in Mali poses a significant threat to national stability and the safety of its citizens, particularly minority groups such as Christians. With geopolitical tensions and shifting alliances complicating the fight against terrorism, it is crucial for both national and international stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and comprehensive strategies to address the roots of extremism and restore peace in the region.

Original Source: cruxnow.com

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