Mauritania summoned Mali’s ambassador, Bakary Doumbia, and delivered a strongly worded protest over what it described as a violation of the sanctity of its diplomatic mission in Bamako amid escalating tensions between the two countries.

Mauritania’s Foreign Ministry stressed that the protection of the embassy, its staff, and Mauritanian citizens falls under the responsibility of Malian authorities in accordance with international norms.

The move followed protests by activists loyal to Mali’s ruling military council outside the Mauritanian embassy over accusations that Nouakchott had been lenient regarding the crossing of armed groups through its borders — allegations Mauritania strongly denies.