France's new policy on security actions in Africa reflects experiences from the Mali intervention.

Al Qaeda and Iran represent ongoing threats to various targets around the world.

The foreign troop presence in Mali will change as the intervention there enters a new phase.

Bamako has shown its commitment to assisting foreign militaries in security operations.

Financial and political constraints will make it harder for many governments to maintain balance in the coming months.

France's deadline for withdrawing troops is fast approaching.

The effects of history and geography are visible in the country's current struggles.

The rough geography of the Tigharghar Mountains gives militants an easily defensible sanctuary.

The intervention in Mali could lead to more frequent kidnappings in the region.

Jihadists are changing their resistance tactics, posing fresh challenges to intervention forces.