President Donald Trump is considering launching military strikes against an al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group operating in Mali, according to a report by The Washington Post on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The report, cited by The Hill, references current and former U.S. officials familiar with the discussions.

However, there is noted disagreement among senior U.S. officials about proceeding with such an attack. The National Security Council’s senior director for counterterrorism, identified as Sebastian, is among those involved in the debate.

The deliberations highlight ongoing concerns within the U.S. administration regarding counterterrorism efforts in the region.

Sources