Battle of Tabankort (2014)

The Battle of Tabankort took place on August 20, 2014, in and around the Malian town of Tabankort. It involved clashes between the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), a coalition of Tuareg separatist groups, and a pro-government militia known as the GATIA (Groupe d'autodéfense des Touaregs Imghad et leurs alliés).

The battle was part of a larger conflict in northern Mali following the 2012 Tuareg rebellion and the subsequent French-led intervention, Operation Serval. The CMA, seeking greater autonomy or independence for the Azawad region, fought against GATIA, which supported the Malian government's authority.

The fighting resulted in casualties on both sides. Reports vary on the exact numbers, but both CMA and GATIA forces suffered losses. Control of Tabankort shifted hands multiple times during and after the battle.

The Battle of Tabankort highlighted the complex and fragmented nature of the conflict in northern Mali, with various armed groups vying for control and influence. It contributed to ongoing instability and humanitarian concerns in the region. Subsequent peace talks and ceasefire agreements aimed to address the underlying issues and prevent further escalations of violence. The battle remains a significant event in the post-2012 conflict landscape of northern Mali.