Security & Defense Bound

Sahel: Surging Jihadist Violence Batters the Sahel, Exposing Government Weakness$

Jihadist violence has surged across the Sahel, with militants overrunning military bases, ambushing convoys, and forcing civilians to negotiate with armed groups for survival. Hardest hit are conflict corridors in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and northeastern Nigeria, where blockades and insecurity have left millions displaced or trapped in besieged communities.

Read More

Algeria Plans Major Military Budget Increase for 2026$

Algeria’s government is set to boost its military budget to historic levels in 2026, with over $24 billion earmarked for defense spending. This unprecedented increase, outlined in the country’s draft finance law, reflects Algeria’s aim to reinforce security amid regional instability and border threats. The new funding will prioritize modernizing military equipment and strengthening operational readiness, underscoring the military’s central role in national policy.

Read More

Mali: Ongoing Attacks Prompt Longer Curfew in Western Mali$

Kayes in western Mali will continue under a nighttime curfew throughout October, as authorities respond to a series of attacks by armed groups and work to limit the threat of insurgent violence.

Read More

Mali: Diplomatic Rift Widens as France Expels Malian Envoys, Halts Counterterrorism Ties$

Diplomatic ties between Mali and France have sharply deteriorated after Mali detained a French national on coup-plotting charges, leading France to expel two Malian diplomats and suspend joint counterterrorism efforts. In response, Mali expelled five French embassy staff, ending a lengthy era of security cooperation between the two countries.

Read More