The Azawad Political Forum has strongly condemned the killing of two civilians in the Zarho area of Tombouctou Region, northern Mali, on 23 June 2026, describing the incident as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.

In a statement issued on 24 June, the Forum alleged that Malian army personnel and members of the Africa Corps (Russian Corps) were responsible for the killings. According to the statement, one of the victims was allegedly subjected to mutilation after being killed, with body parts severed in what the Forum described as a “shocking and degrading manner.”

The Forum said that deliberately targeting civilians and mutilating bodies constitutes a grave breach of international humanitarian law, human rights principles, and Islamic values that prohibit attacks on innocent people and violations of the dignity of the dead.

The statement called on the international community, the United Nations, and international human rights organizations to launch an independent and transparent investigation into the incident and to hold those responsible accountable. It also urged international partners to review military cooperation and support provided to Mali’s military authorities unless effective measures are taken to protect civilians and prevent further abuses.

The Forum reaffirmed its solidarity with the families of the victims and called for stronger international efforts to ensure civilian protection and end impunity for those responsible for violations against the civilian population.