CSS Condemns Algerian Regime Over Malian Military Drone Destruction

The College of Heads of State of the Confederation of Sahel States (CSS) has issued a communiqué condemning what it describes as an act of aggression by the Algerian regime following the destruction of a military drone belonging to Mali’s Armed and Security Forces.

According to the statement, the incident occurred from March 31 to April 1, 2025, in the Tin-Zaouatène area in the Kidal region of northern Mali. The drone, registered TZ-98D, was reportedly shot down in what CSS labels a “hostile act” by Algeria.

According to a report by AESInfo, the drone was reportedly tracking Iyad Ag Ghali, a top JNIM terrorist leader wanted by the International Criminal Court(ICC) for crimes against humanity and had been located near Tinzaouatène. Mali suspects Algeria acted deliberately to protect Ag Ghali, citing past allegations of ties between him and Algerian intelligence. While Algeria claimed the drone violated its airspace, Mali questions the timing, noting similar drones have flown in the region without issue.

The CSS, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, expressed deep concern over the escalation, framing the drone’s destruction as not only an attack on Mali but on the entire confederation. The communiqué emphasised that the incident undermines regional stability and supports terrorist operations by preventing the neutralisation of a group reportedly plotting attacks against CSS interests.

This act constitutes a grave violation of international law and a setback for the historic and fraternal relations between our peoples,” said General Assimi Goïta, President of the Transition in Mali and current President of the CSS.

The College of Heads of State highlighted that, since December 2024, the confederation had officially declared its territory a unified military operations zone. The communiqué accused Algeria of acting in a “perfidious” manner, contributing to regional destabilisation and the promotion of terrorism.

In a decisive diplomatic response, the CSS has recalled its member states’ ambassadors from Algeria for consultations. The confederation also called on the Algerian regime to adopt a “constructive posture” and contribute to peace and security in the region.

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