Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Mali's military and opposition armed groups of serious violations of international humanitarian law amid escalating fighting across the country.
In a report released Monday, the rights organization documented civilian deaths, indiscriminate attacks and executions of captured soldiers, urging the African Union to intervene to prevent further atrocities.
HRW said Malian forces and Russia-controlled Africa Corps personnel have killed and wounded scores of civilians during counterinsurgency operations since July 2026.
On August 19, an apparent military drone strike hit a cattle market in Tombonkore, Bandiagara region, killing six civilians and injuring at least 20 others.
Witnesses reported no Islamist fighters were present, while Mali's military described an operation against a militant hideout.
Another drone strike on July 29 partially destroyed a health facility in Talahandak, Kidal region.
HRW also documented the killing of five girls, aged 10 to 13, by Malian soldiers near Niono on July 12.
Military personnel subsequently apologized to their families, acknowledging a mistaken identification.
In Djenné, allied Dozo militiamen allegedly killed three Fulani civilians during operations on July 27 and 28.
According to conflict-monitoring organization ACLED, Malian forces and Africa Corps conducted 49 airstrikes between April and August, killing 89 civilians, compared with 44 deaths during the corresponding period in 2025.
HRW also accused Islamist and separatist fighters of torturing and executing captured Malian soldiers following a July 18 convoy ambush near Tabrichat in Gao region.
At least 19 surrendered soldiers were reportedly executed during the attack involving the Al-Qaeda-linked JNIM and Azawad Liberation Front (FLA).
JNIM acknowledged the killings but denied ordering them, while the FLA rejected responsibility for executions and pledged internal checks.
HRW called on the African Union Peace and Security Council to strengthen civilian protection, demand independent investigations and maintain regular public scrutiny of abuses committed by all parties.
The organization said accountability remains essential as Mali's prolonged conflict continues to endanger civilians and captured combatants.