ISSP attacks Malian Army, seizes Labbezanga

The Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (IS-Sahel or ISSP) has launched a new offensive in eastern Mali, firing multiple rockets at Malian Army positions in the city of Menaka. In a significant development, the group has also seized full control of the strategic border town of Labbezanga, including a French-built military base near the town that was previously used for counter-terrorism operations. This capture follows the withdrawal of Russian Africa Corps forces from the area earlier this month and represents a major territorial gain for the jihadist group. The advance threatens to further destabilize the region and cut off key supply routes.