The Malian military has launched an emergency security operation to repel gunmen who staged a series of coordinated strikes across the capital and northern regions early Saturday.

To secure the perimeter, soldiers have established roadblocks around the Kati military base and strategic corridors leading into Bamako, as the government seeks to regain control of the security narrative as cited by reuters.

Following the initial explosions, the army's next move involves a multi-front response to reports of gunmen active in Sevare, Kidal, and Gao.

While the Azawad Liberation Front claims to have seized positions in the north, military officials have called for public calm while tactical units are deployed to neutralize the remaining "terrorist" elements.

Security forces are also prioritizing the stabilization of the military camp near Bamako’s airport, which houses Russian security elements.

This defensive surge arrives as Mali and the U.S. reportedly move closer to a deal that would allow for increased aerial intelligence, a move intended to provide better early-warning systems against future coordinated assaults.