rsg need to make an announcement on mali, page-14

Aside from the expected reflexive selling, I see nothing but positives from recent developments. There is little doubt that the so called Islamist rebels will be pushed back to the northern borders and prevented from returning to populated areas.

Present ground forces number 1 800, soon to reach 2 500, and are well supported. The French hold the Markala bridge; effectively preventing a rebel push south. The Malian army have re taken Konna and Diabaly. Konna is 700 kilometres north of Bamako and Syama is 300 kilometres southeast of Bamako.

In spite of the sometimes hysterical propaganda, the rebel leadership are not radical fools when it comes to tactical matters. They will not wish to be facing ECOWAS troops, French troops and air support, a reinvigorated Malian army and a renewed international focus.