In a significant clash, the Malian military reportedly repelled an assault on a military base in San, claiming to have killed around 40 militant Islamists from the jihadist group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), who are affiliated with Al-Qaeda. The attack occurred early Sunday morning, with the militants approaching on motorcycles and foot, some disguised as soldiers to infiltrate the base. Although the Malian army suffered casualties and temporarily withdrew, they denied losing control of the garrison. Witnesses reported that the fighting took place approximately 200-300 meters from the camp, with several militants killed by soldiers before others fled or hid in houses and forests. The attack comes amidst deteriorating security conditions in Mali, over a decade since jihadist insurgency began taking root in the northern regions of the country. JNIM has expanded its operations beyond northern Mali, targeting central and southern areas as well, demonstrating an increasing ability to penetrate deeper into the territory despite numerous military operations. The Malian government, which rejected French military aid following a coup in 2020, is now seeking assistance from Russia. This incident underscores the ongoing struggle against terrorism in Mali and the broader region.