French in Mali for “a matter of weeks”

The aim is to drive back Islamic militants from the north of Mali.

French jets have bombarded rebel strongholds and [A]round 550 ground troops have been deployed.

The strategically important town of Konna has been retaken.

French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius told reporters his country’s direct involvement will only last a matter of weeks. It has prevented the advancing rebels from seizing Bamako, he said.