The recent drone strikes in Inadiatafane, northern Mali, resulting in the deaths of at least eight civilians, including six children, starkly highlight severe human rights violations.
Development Diaries reports that several people who saw the drone strikes on 21 October in Inadiatafane, which is in the Timbuktu region in northern Mali, say that six of the eight civilians killed were children.
Another 15 people were hurt, with some being badly hurt, according to Amnesty International‘s report.
This development shows a blatant disregard for the principles of international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction and proportionality.
These principles require that parties in conflict must distinguish between civilian and military targets and take all feasible precautions to avoid or minimise civilian harm.
Amnesty International’s accounts, supported by witness testimonies, indicate that the market, which is a civilian space, was targeted, leading to significant casualties.
This raises concerns about the application of lawful engagement and whether the principles of necessity and proportionality were upheld during the operation.
The targeting of a busy market during peak hours, with repeated drone strikes affecting individuals moving through or trading in the market, emphasises the need for stricter adherence to military protocols.
The testimonies of residents, describing the impact on children and babies, further reveal the severity of civilian suffering.
Under international law, these kinds of acts could be considered war crimes. This makes it even more important to have open and impartial investigations right away.
Furthermore, this incident, coupled with previous strikes in March 2024 that also led to civilian deaths, worsens the fragile trust citizens have in governance and state authority.
The Malian government’s response to these tragedies will significantly impact public perception. The testimonies showing the reluctance of nomadic communities to seek help from state-run health centres, and their inclination to flee to the bush, point to deep-rooted distrust.
This lack of trust is made worse by the perception that state actors are willing to endanger civilian lives without sufficient safeguards or oversight. The response of the authorities to these events will either erode or restore some degree of public confidence.
To rebuild trust, the Malian government must act swiftly to demonstrate accountability and transparency.
Development Diaries calls on the government to investigate these strikes in a way that upholds the rights of victims and provides public disclosure of the findings.
We also call on the Malian authorities to thoroughly review the rules of engagement and accountability mechanisms guiding their drone operations to ensure compliance with international norms.
Photo source: Amnesty International
