The UN mission (Minusma) said the attack between Tessalit and Gao may constitute a war crime.

It said mines and improvised explosive devices planted by jihadist fighters affected UN personnel, the Malian military and civilians without distinction.

https://twitter.com/UN_MINUSMA/status/1544345692235350017

The peacekeeping force is one of the UN's largest and is one of the most dangerous missions.

Over the last decade more than 170 troops have been killed.

Last month the UN Security Council extended the force's mandate by a year.

There is concern that the peacekeepers may be more vulnerable without French air support following France's decision to withdraw from Mali after falling out with the military leaders who carried out two coups.