The conflict in northern Mali began in January 2012 with radical Islamists (affiliated to al-Qaeda) advancing into northern Mali. The Malian government had a hard time maintaining full control over their country. The fledgling government requested support from the international community on combating the Islamic militants. In January 2013, France intervened on behalf of the Malian government's request and deployed troops into the region. They launched Operation Serval on 11 January 2013, with the hopes of dislodging the al-Qaeda affiliated groups from northern Mali. COUNT 5
QSN1 When did a Mali conflict begin? ANS1 January 2012 QSN2 What group were the Mali radicals affiliated with? ANS2 al-Qaeda QSN3 When did France provide troops in Mali? ANS3 January 2013 QSN4 What did France call its Mali operation? ANS4 Operation Serval QSN5 What was Operation Serval's goal? ANS5 dislodging the al-Qaeda affiliated groups from northern Mali