Islamic State Claims Attack on Army Post East of Ansongo

Gao, February 15, 2026 - The Islamic State - Sahel Province claimed responsibility for an attack on a Malian army checkpoint located at the eastern entrance of Ansongo on the Ansongo-Ménaka road, carried out Sunday morning, February 15, 2026. According to reports, the assailants used automatic weapons, prompting the immediate withdrawal of Malian soldiers from the site upon the attackers’ arrival. Damage and Seizures In its statement, the group reported: Setting fire to an armored vehicle and a motorcycle near the post Seizing two rifles and a medium machine gun Withdrawing without suffering any losses after the operation The attack caused material damage to the military installation and underscores the continuing security threats posed by extremist groups in the Gao region.