Al-Qaeda in Mali is closer than ever to ruling its first country. The terror group’s affiliate, JNIM, now controls huge parts of the nation and is closing in on Bamako. Fuel blockades, food shortages, and rising prices grip the capital as militants tighten their siege. Over 8 million Malians need urgent aid, and 2,000+ civilians are dead this year. Experts warn Mali could soon become the first-ever nation ruled by Al-Qaeda — a turning point in global terrorism.