Mali: Al-Qaeda-affiliated jihadists launched seven coordinated attacks, extending their operational reach into the country’s west; meanwhile, transitional leader General Goïta granted himself a renewable five-year term in office.

The article details a major coordinated offensive by Al-Qaeda-linked militants and a significant political move by Mali's transitional leader. Topics include jihadist attacks expanding into western Mali, the leader granting himself a renewable five-year term; and the resumption of security talks with the United States.