​​​​​​​ISTANBUL

The US Embassy in Bamako on Tuesday urged Americans to leave Mali “immediately” amid escalating security concerns, including violence, fuel supply disruptions, interruptions to essential services and rising risks around the capital.

“US citizens should depart using commercial aviation, as overland routes to neighboring countries may not be safe for travel due to terrorist attacks along national highways,” the embassy said in a security alert.

It advised remaining Americans to prepare contingency plans for potential emergencies, including the possibility of needing to shelter in place for an extended period.

The embassy announced last Friday that non-essential diplomatic staff and their families would leave Mali amid the worsening fuel shortage and growing security concerns.

It said it could not provide routine or emergency consular services outside Bamako and noted that a travel advisory for Mali remains in effect.

“US citizens should continue to avoid travel to Mali,” it warned in the alert, adding that the embassy cannot provide emergency services or support outside Bamako.

It urged travelers to Mali to contact the embassy in case of an emergency.

The embassy urged Americans to avoid demonstrations and roadblocks, remain vigilant, keep a low profile, stay aware of their surroundings, maintain communication and accessible travel documents.

Mali has faced a fuel crisis for weeks, caused by armed groups blocking routes used by fuel tankers, particularly affecting Bamako.

Long lines have formed at gas stations while public transport and motorcycle taxis have been severely disrupted, leaving Bamako’s usually crowded streets unusually quiet.

Malisuspended education nationwide for two weeks on Sunday. Higher education institutions in the capital also said they were forced to suspend classes, citing the inability of students and teachers to reach campuses due to the fuel shortage.​​​​​​​