Summary:

On 4 September 2025, the government of Mali announced it had filed a case with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Algeria, accusing it of shooting down a Malian military drone over Malian territory in early April 2025.  

Mali described the incident as a violation of its airspace and an act of aggression, while Algeria rejected the claims, asserting that radar data confirmed the drone entered Algerian airspace.  

The dispute has escalated diplomatic tensions with both countries recalling their ambassadors and closing their airspace to one another. Mali also criticized Algeria for alleged ties with armed groups in the border region, noting that the 2015 Algiers peace agreement had been terminated by Bamako in January 2024. 

Outlook: 

The referral of the case by Mali to the ICJ signals an escalation in tensions between Mali and Algeria, further straining already fragile diplomatic relations.  

The dispute may disrupt bilateral cooperation on border security and regional counterterrorism initiatives, particularly within the Sahel. The court’s proceedings will attract regional and international scrutiny, highlighting the fragility of bilateral relations and the risk of further escalation. 

The case is likely to put additional pressure on Algeria, as Mali’s allies, including Niger and Burkina Faso, have recalled their ambassadors from Algiers, prompting reciprocal actions from Algeria. This diplomatic isolation could weaken Algeria’s influence in the region, limiting its ability to coordinate with neighbors on critical security matters. 

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