Malian armed forces said on the 4th multiple army positions were attacked in the early morning and that authorities are tracking developments. Positions hit were in the north at Aguelhok, Anefis and Gao, and in the central town of Sevare. The statement gave no details on the attackers, the sequence of events or casualties. Mali has faced persistent insecurity since 2012, with frequent terrorist attacks and armed clashes; the military has said it will continue operations against armed groups.