**Breaking News: India Issues Ultimatum to Mali Over Kidnapped Nationals**

In a dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions, the Indian government has issued a stern ultimatum to Mali, demanding immediate action following the kidnapping of three Indian workers by terrorists. The incident, which occurred on July 1, 2025, at the Diamond Sem factory in Kaes, Mali, has sparked outrage in India and raised urgent concerns about the safety of its citizens abroad.

The workers were abducted during a coordinated terrorist attack that also targeted military and government sites in the region. While no group has officially claimed responsibility, the extremist organization known as JNIM, affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has been linked to a series of violent assaults across central and western Mali, raising fears of further instability.

India’s Minister of External Affairs has condemned the “deplorable act of violence,” calling on Malian authorities to ensure the swift and safe release of the hostages. This demand places immense pressure on the Malian government, which is grappling with its own security challenges amid a rising tide of extremism.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian embassy in Mali is maintaining close communication with local law enforcement and the families of the victims. Indian nationals in Mali have been urged to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant.

The stakes are high: Mali faces the prospect of a military operation to rescue the hostages, a risky endeavor that could lead to further casualties. Alternatively, negotiations with the terrorists may be on the table, echoing past incidents where governments have had to weigh the release of prisoners in exchange for hostages.

As the clock ticks, the world watches closely. Will Mali act decisively to secure the release of the hostages, or will the situation spiral further out of control? The urgency of the moment cannot be overstated.