Mali ends crucial peace deal with rebels, raising concerns about a possible escalation in violence

By BABA AHMED
Associated Press

BAMAKO, Mali (AP) — Mali’s junta has terminated a crucial agreement with local rebels that helped maintain a fragile peace in the country’s north, raising concerns about a possible escalation in violence. Government spokesperson Col. Abdoulaye Maiga said on state television Thursday night that the 2015 peace deal with Tuareg rebel groups is ending “with immediate effect” because the rebels have failed to comply with its terms and because of “acts of hostility” by Algeria, which has been the main mediator in the peace efforts. Representatives of the rebel group did not immediately comment but Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that it “deeply regrets” Mali’s decision to end the agreement and denied working against it.