Mali military launches paradrop on Kidal

The Malian military is conducting a paradrop operation in an attempt to recapture the northern city of Kidal from militant control. The operation represents a significant counter-offensive by government forces after the city and its governor's palace were seized by Al-Qaeda-linked JNIM and FLA fighters. The assault is part of a wider, intense nationwide conflict between the Malian army and a coalition of rebel and jihadist groups. The outcome of the paradrop will be critical for determining control of the strategic northern region.