Mali has confirmed that Algeria rejected the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a case concerning the destruction of a Malian reconnaissance drone on March 31–April 1, 2025.
The ICJ notified Bamako on September 19 of Algeria’s refusal, effectively ending proceedings Mali had initiated on September 16.
The transitional government described the refusal as both a denial of international justice and an admission of responsibility, accusing Algeria of supporting extremist groups targeted by the drone mission.
The incident has fueled a sharp deterioration in bilateral relations, with both countries closing airspace, recalling ambassadors, and suspending air links.
Mali had already raised the matter at the UN Security Council in April and opened a terrorism-related judicial investigation.
In its latest statement, Bamako called on Algiers to halt interference in Malian affairs, while pledging under transitional president Assimi Goïta to continue efforts for national stability, security, and development.
