West Africa has become the epicenter of global terrorism, with jihadist groups expanding their influence in the Sahel region. A recent attack in Mali’s capital, where they killed dozens of students at a training facility and set fire to the presidential jet, highlighted the jihadists’ capacity to strike urban areas. These insurgent groups, linked to al Qaeda and ISIS, have killed thousands of people and displaced millions more, resulting in rising migration from the region to Europe via Spain’s Canary Islands. Military coups have further destabilized the region, with the ruling juntas replacing Western support with Russian assistance. However, they continue to lose ground. Experts warn that these jihadist-controlled territories may evolve into launchpads for future attacks, not only in Africa but also beyond, as Western powers struggle to maintain influence and counter the growing threat.
SOURCE: REUTERS
