The National Assembly’s Defense Commission released its information report on Operation Barkhane on Wednesday. This is the first report to be tabled since the start of military operations in the area in 2013. Deputies are advocating a reorientation of Barkhane in the coming months by relying more on partner armies in the Sahel. A new doctrine which, according to the deputies, should no longer completely preclude the opening of negotiations with certain warriors.
The debate is as old as it is the French presence in the Sahel. Should we negotiate with GAT, the armed terrorist groups? So far, the French position has never changed: “We do not negotiate with terrorists,” Paris said. However, the National Assembly’s information mission is now making a small change at the same time as the red lines are being set for what is negotiable.
“For the armed forces, I think it is difficult to understand when there are releases in the negotiations with the GAT, they have the impression of helping to arrest dangerous people, and finally, a detour of a political negotiation, to release the same people. is something for France that is complicated to deal with, and in fact, which may lead to decision – making by the President of the Republic. the democratic transition is to take place and does not want to pay the price for it, explains Sereine.Mauborgne, the rapporteur.
The deputies of the Defense Committee appeal for the neutral leaders to be neutralized before any negotiations begin. A condition that is hoped for during the summer before the expected announcements on a possible review of Operation Barkhane.
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