ISSP and JNIM clash in Tessit area

Reports indicate the activation of Islamic State in the Sahel Province (ISSP) militants in the Tessit area of Mali, where Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) recently claimed control. Meanwhile, Malian army and Africa Corps units faced an attack during their retreat from Labbezanga, having left early to avoid an ISSP strike but still engaging in clashes. The weakening of state control may open opportunities for multiple groups, including potential inter-jihadist competition for territory. JNIM has announced further advances toward Gao, raising the risk of direct confrontation with ISSP.