The French intervention has allowed other African countries to begin deploying to Mali.

French air assaults come as the jihadists break under the pressure of military operations.

Stratfor's VP of Africa Analysis Mark Schroeder examines the militant and jihadist groups affecting countries in North and West Africa.

Al Qaeda may have targeted Col. Elhadji Ag Gamou because he could serve as a valuable asset for a potential intervention force in Mali.

Due to an increase in counterterrorism operations against AQIM, the jihadist group will likely conduct more kidnappings to increase revenue.

Analyst Mark Schroeder discusses the benefits of interdicting the drug and arms trade in West Africa, which include promoting a stable business environment for the extractive industries of the region.