Mali's military junta needs legitimacy as France transfers security responsibility to African forces.
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Malian troops enter Timbuktu on Jan. 28
An important militant group has announced that it will split.
The recent attack in Algeria raises the question of whether the wider region could see similar incidents.
Bamako wants an immediate intervention, but long-term commitments must be made for any operation to be successful.
Al Qaeda or its allies may have organized the attempt on a high-profile Malian army colonel's life.
The jihadist group faces hostile forces and difficult terrain.
A West African-led peacekeeping force will probably be deployed in northern Mali in the next few months.
Increasing pressure on the jihadist group could compel more kidnappings to raise revenue.
Several militant organizations have gained strength since Mali's coup in March 2012.
