Tensions between Mali and Algeria have reached a new height following Mali’s decision to recall its ambassador in Algiers. According to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mali, this action was taken “for consultation with immediate effect” following recent criticisms by Algerian officials regarding the escalating violence in Mali.
This diplomatic drama originated when Algerian Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Attaf, summoned Mali’s ambassador, Mahamane Amadou Maiga, to discuss recent violent escalations in Mali. Algeria advised a renewal of commitment to the agreement on peace and national reconciliation from all Malian parties, a solution that originated from the Algiers Process.
However, this was not received well in Mali. The nation’s Foreign Affairs Minister retaliated by summoning Algeria’s ambassador, voicing his disapproval of acts he labeled as “unfriendly” and accusing Algeria of interfering in Mali’s internal affairs.
Algeria’s role as a mediator in Mali’s conflict with a separatist movement has been significant. The country led the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali of 2015, which aimed to restore security and achieve long-term peace. However, renewed violence in Mali, notably between the Malian army and the armed group CSP-PSD, threatens this peace process. An event of note was a drone strike in November 2023 that resulted in civilian casualties, an action condemned by the UN in its statement.
Furthermore, the ongoing violence has led to humanitarian challenges. The escalation has prompted concerns about health care access from organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières, who expressed worries about the situation.
This diplomatic tussle coincides with the withdrawal of the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) from the country, a development requested by Mali’s transitional government and one that the UN Security Council accepted. MINUSMA later announced its closure in December 2023.