The security situation in northern and central Mali continues to deteriorate, driving sustained cross-border displacement into southeastern Mauritania. Since 24 October 2025, UNHCR and partners have identified 7,931 Malian refugees (1,276 families) in Hodh Chargui. Children and women continue to represent the majority of those arriving, accounting for approximately 68 per cent and 19 per cent respectively. Recent movements are primarily linked to escalating insecurity in the Timbuktu region, where newly arrived refugees report killings, intimidation, torture and conflict-related sexual violence, leading families to flee in search of safety. Arrivals are dispersed across multiple villages. While UNHCR and partners are providing urgent protection services and life-saving assistance, the scale, geographic spread and continued pace of arrivals are stretching existing response capacities and require additional funding.