On July 22, 2024, the General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) announced that they had taken control of In-Afarak, a key commercial town about 122 km northwest of Tessalit in the Kidal region. This town, located near the Algerian border, had been under the control of rebel groups for several years. The Malian Army’s operation aimed to reclaim territory and eliminate trafficking and illegal activities.
The operation involved a significant military presence, including armored vehicles and support from former Wagner Group members. Rebel forces withdrew without confrontation. In-Afarak’s recapture follows the Malian Army's previous success in Kidal and is part of a broader effort to secure the region, enhance the freedom of movement for local populations, and combat armed groups. This initiative is supported by various international forces, including the French Barkhane mission, European forces from "Takuba," and the UN peacekeeping force MINUSMA.