Mali, Algeria dispute escalates over ICJ rejection in drone incident
By: Zagazola Makama
Tensions between Mali and Algeria have deepened following Algeria’s refusal to accept the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a case filed by Bamako over the downing of a Malian reconnaissance drone earlier this year.
In a statement released on Sept. 25, the Malian transitional government disclosed that the ICJ had notified it of Algeria’s rejection of the proceedings on Sept. 19. The case stems from an incident that occurred during the night of March 31 to April 1, when Algerian defence forces shot down a Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) surveillance drone while it was on a mission over Malian territory.
For Bamako, Algeria’s refusal amounts to a dismissal of international justice and a demonstration of disregard for international law. “For credibility and sincerity, the Algerian junta should have agreed to submit to the ICJ,” the Malian government said, describing the rejection as a de facto admission of guilt.
Malian authorities further accused Algeria of supporting terrorist groups active in the Sahel, including those allegedly targeted by the destroyed drone. According to Bamako, Algeria’s response represents a deliberate attempt to deflect attention from its alleged involvement in regional instability through what it described as “defamatory invectives.”
The Malian government also urged Algiers to end what it called interference in Mali’s internal affairs and to cease its alleged support for armed groups that contribute to insecurity in the region.
Despite the rising diplomatic row, Mali reiterated its commitment to peace and stability in the Sahel. The transitional government assured citizens that it would continue to defend national sovereignty and pursue justice through all available international mechanisms.
This growing strains between Bamako and Algiers comes at a time when regional solidarity is critical in the fight against terrorism and in efforts to restore stability across the Sahel. The outcome of the standoff could have broader implications for cross-border relations and security cooperation in the region.
