French Airstrikes Push Back Islamists and Regain Towns in Central Mali

[Lasher]

Source: New York Times

SEGOU, Mali — Malian and French troops appeared to recapture two important central Malian towns on Monday, pushing back an advance by Islamist militants who have overrun the country’s northern half.

French soldiers in armored vehicles rolled through the town of Diabaly, about 275 miles from the capital, Bamako, to cheers from residents, who flew French and Malian flags to welcome them.

“I want to thank the French people,” said Mamadou Traoré, a Diabaly resident. He said French airstrikes had chased away the militants without harming any civilians, a claim echoed by other residents.

“None of us were touched,” Mr. Traoré said. “It was incredible.”

Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/22/world/africa/french-airstrikes-push-back-islamists-in-central-mali.html?_r=0

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Related DU LBN thread here: http://www.democraticunderground.com/1014375053

Good Wikipedia background article here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Mali_conflict

[happyslug]

1. Every time I hear of Yelling Supporters I recall Washington's move through NYC to Boston

George Washington traveled through New York City in June 25, 1775, the same day the last Royal Governor of New York returned from Britain. Both were received by cheering crowds (with at least one Commentator saying many of the people who cheered Washington, then Cheered the Royal Governor as he landed).

Just a comment, do NOT put much weight on Cheers, it is a safe thing to do when any Army goes through your town.

[mwrguy]

2. "airstrikes had chased away the militants without harming any civilians"

I call BS.

[samsingh]

3. thank you France