Italy Issues Urgent Travel Warning for Mali Amid Fuel Blockade

Italy has advised against travel to Mali due to escalating security concerns. The al-Qaeda-linked insurgents have imposed a fuel blockade, intensifying risks in the region. Italians in Mali are urged to leave, echoing a similar U.S. warning, as the situation threatens stability, even in the capital, Bamako.

Italy has issued a travel warning against visiting Mali due to mounting security threats linked to al Qaeda-affiliated insurgents. The Islamist militants have imposed a fuel blockade that has exacerbated safety concerns, urging Italians already in the nation to expedite their departure.

This cautionary announcement reflects similar alerts from the United States, highlighting the gravity of the crisis. The militant group, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, started blocking fuel imports to the West African nation early last month, thwarting vehicle access, including fuel convoys, to the capital, Bamako.

The blockade has created a dire fuel shortage, raising fears that the situation could further destabilize Mali. Italians and expatriates from other countries are being advised to heed these warnings to ensure their safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)