July 05, 2012 - 12:49 PM
The U.N. Security Council has passed a resolution threatening sanctions against Islamist fighters in northern Mali.
The resolution passed Monday expresses concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Mali and demands the restoration of constitutional order following a March 21 coup.
The resolution condemns Ansar Dine, or "Protectors of the Faith," for destroying the heritage of the ancient city of Timbuktu. It calls for blacklisting anyone associated with al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb.
France's U.N. Ambassador Gerard Araud said the council awaits an official request by the West African body ECOWAS for a mandate for a proposed stabilization force. Araud said finances for a mission must be discussed, and the council would not give ECOWAS "carte blanche."
Ansar Dine seized Timbuktu last week after ousting a Tuareg rebel faction.
News from © The Associated Press, 2012