Amnesty International on Friday urged militant fighters in Mali to respect civilian protection amid tightening blockade around Bamako city.
Blockade conditions have intensified since April 30 when armed groups cut key roads into the landlocked capital Bamako.
JNIM, allied with Tuareg rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front, escalated operations in April targeting ruling junta positions across Mali.
The siege has disrupted civilian life, restricting movement and raising fears over food insecurity, health access, and survival conditions nationwide.
“The ongoing siege of Bamako is having unacceptable consequences for civilians’ freedom of movement and rights to food security, health and life.”
On May 6, militants attacked a civilian convoy travelling between Bamako and Bougouni in southern Mali carrying essential goods supplies.
The trucks were not under military escort and were not carrying military personnel or equipment, according to Amnesty’s statement.
Amnesty said attacks on civilian vehicles serving non-military purposes are unlawful under international humanitarian law frameworks protecting civilians.
Under international humanitarian law, all parties to an armed conflict must always distinguish clearly between civilians and combatants.
More than a dozen transport companies this week suspended routes to and from Bamako due to worsening blockade conditions.
Since 2012, Mali has faced a deepening security crisis driven by militant violence, separatist movements, and criminal networks across the country.