French troops launch military operations against Mali rebels

PanARMENIAN.Net - French troops have started conducting military operations against Islamist extremists in Mali, alongside troops from the West African country, Belfast Telegraph reported.

Mali's president later declared a state of emergency during an address on national television.

President Dioncounda Traore said that the declaration would remain in effect for 10 days and could be renewed.

The president called on mining companies and non-government organisations to give up their pick-ups and other trucks to the Malian military, raising questions about the capacity of the army.

Earlier on Friday, January 11 President Francois Hollande said Mali was facing a "terrorist aggression".

He said French army forces "supported Malian units this afternoon to fight against terrorist elements" in response to a request by Mali's president for help.

Mr Hollande said the French operation would last "as long as necessary" and was aimed notably at protecting the 6,000 French citizens in Mali, a former French colony.

France has led a diplomatic push for international action in Mali against Islamist extremists.

Extremists who have controlled the north for months captured the city of Konna on Thursday and are threatening the city of Mopti - with 100,000 inhabitants.

The capture of Mopti would leave the capital Bamako more vulnerable.