Mali's government reports rebel attacks on northern towns as insurgents escalate efforts to capture strategic locations amid rising violence.

Mali's government reports rebel attacks on northern towns as insurgents escalate efforts to capture strategic locations amid rising violence.

The Malian army said Saturday that several northern towns, including Gao and Sevare, were targeted by rebels. The statement came as a rebel group announced a new offensive to capture a northern town.

The Malian army reports that several northern towns, including Gao and Sévaré, have been targeted by rebels.