[1] The rebels came together a few weeks later to form the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), and later signed the Algiers Agreement in 2015.

[4] Between February 1 and 2, 2016, several hundred to a thousand GATIA fighters led by El Hadj Ag Gamou entered Kidal with alleged consent from the CMA.

"[8] GATIA commander Ag Gamou, who was headquartered in Takellote south of Kidal, was "aiming for the position of president of the regional council of the future interim administration provided for by the Algiers Agreement."

[12] On the evening of July 19, gunfire broke out in Kidal, and a GATIA fighter, an HCUA officer, and a civilian were killed.

[14][15] Fighting broke out at 4pm on July 21 between GATIA and the HCUA in the city center, with both sides accusing the other of initiating the clashes.

[15][16] The MNLA stated that French helicopters flew over the city during the battle, and that MINUSMA peacekeepers did not interfere.

[22] Despite neither side initially offering a death toll, RFI stated several dozen fighters and civilians were killed during the battle.

[18] Hospitals in Kidal told Reuters they had seen twenty bodies and around forty injuries, and Studio Tamani reported thirty killed.

[29] CMA president Bilal Ag Acherif claimed on August 4 that the battle left 150 people dead and 100 injured.