The French government has issued an urgent advisory calling on all French nationals in Mali to leave the country “as soon as possible”, citing a rapidly deteriorating security situation and a crippling fuel blockade imposed by jihadist militants.

In a statement released Friday, the French Foreign Ministry warned that the al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) has intensified its blockade on fuel tankers entering Mali, severely disrupting daily life in the capital Bamako and other regions.

The blockade, which began in September, has led to widespread fuel shortages, power outages, and school closures.

“For several weeks, the security situation has been deteriorating in Mali, including in Bamako,” the ministry said, urging French citizens to depart via commercial flights while they remain available.

It also strongly advised against any travel to Mali “regardless of the reason,” warning that land routes are unsafe due to the risk of terrorist attacks.

The advisory aligns with similar warnings issued by the United States and United Kingdom, as concerns mount over the Malian military government’s ability to contain armed groups following the withdrawal of French and international forces in recent years.

The French embassy in Bamako remains operational but has scaled back services, focusing on assisting citizens seeking to leave

The ministry emphasized that the situation could deteriorate further without warning and that evacuation options may become limited.

This development underscores the growing instability in Mali, where jihadist groups continue to exploit governance vacuums and regional tensions. Analysts warn that the blockade tactic may signal a shift in insurgent strategy, aiming to paralyze state functions and deepen public discontent.