Over two days starting on 22 January 2023, Al-Qaeda’s branch, the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), released footage through its media wing Az-Zallaqa on Chirp Wire showing notable tribal figures pledging allegiance to JNIM emir Iyad Ag Ghaly, who was present at the ceremony. Az-Zallaqa said that the men were from the “Azawagh tribe” in Mali’s Menaka region. In one image, Ag Ghaly appeared to be sitting at the center of the group surrounded by a few men dressed in Tuareg attire. Other images depicted weapons, technicals (vehicles with mounted guns), and several militants carrying AK-type rifles. However, the significance of the footage comes from its timing, the location, and the presence of Ag Ghaly himself in the Menaka region.