The United States has called on all American citizens currently in Mali to depart the country immediately, citing growing instability caused by an escalating fuel blockade and persistent security threats from al-Qaeda-affiliated militants.
In an advisory issued Tuesday, the U.S. Embassy in Bamako warned that worsening fuel shortages, ongoing armed clashes near the capital, and the temporary closure of schools and universities have created an increasingly unpredictable environment.
The crisis stems from a fuel blockade launched in early September by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a militant group linked to al-Qaeda. The insurgents have targeted convoys transporting fuel into Mali, severely restricting the flow of essential supplies and deepening the country’s economic strain.
In response to the shortage, Mali’s government suspended all classes nationwide for two weeks starting Sunday. Analysts view the blockade as a strategic attempt by militants to exert pressure on the military-led administration by disrupting the country’s economic lifelines.
Although Bamako’s main airport remains operational, the embassy strongly advised Americans to leave via commercial flights rather than overland routes, warning that highways leading to neighboring countries are vulnerable to terrorist attacks.
U.S. citizens who choose to remain in Mali are urged to develop contingency plans, including preparations for extended shelter-in-place scenarios. The embassy emphasized that it cannot provide consular assistance outside the capital.
Last Friday, the U.S. State Department authorized the voluntary departure of non-essential embassy staff and their families, maintaining its highest travel warning for Mali — Level 4: “Do Not Travel.”
Source:Africa Publicity
