VOICED : Resistencia islamista en Gao

Gao, the largest city in northern Mali, has been the scene of street clashes between Malian and French soldiers against Islamist fighters since Sunday. The situation remained tense on Monday, with French soldiers clearing mines from the ruins of the main police station after a dawn bombing. At least two Islamists and three civilians died, with 17 others injured. French soldiers also evacuated the city market due to fears of another suicide attack. For the first time in the country's history, Islamists carried out two suicide attacks in Gao. The French intervention began a month ago to stop the Islamist advance southward. The French and Malian soldiers advanced with little resistance, as Islamists seemed to have retreated to desert areas. However, in the past four days, Islamists have shown they did not all flee and demonstrated their resistance capabilities in Gao.

What is the main reason for the current tension in Gao, Mali?

• Political elections

• Economic crisis

• Street clashes between soldiers and Islamists

• Natural disaster

What action did French soldiers take after a bombing in Gao?

• They cleared mines from the police station ruins

• They withdrew from the city

• They launched a counterattack

• They negotiated with the Islamists

Why did French soldiers evacuate the city market in Gao?

• Due to a fire outbreak

• Fear of another suicide attack

• To prevent looting

• To conduct a military drill

What was the primary goal of the French intervention in Mali?

• To stop the Islamist advance southward

• To build infrastructure

• To provide humanitarian aid

• To establish a new government

How have the Islamists demonstrated their presence in Gao recently?

• By negotiating peace

• By showing resilience and not fleeing

• By launching a political campaign

• By retreating to the desert