The surprising consensus on the French intervention in Mali

Many have been surprised by the French operation "Serval" in Mali and for good reasons: there was no indication of such a turn of events after a long year of multilateral negotiations characterized by a diplomatic and military cautiousness which were made extremely sacred. Yet few comments are currently questioning the French decision. On the contrary, it is rather well received by international actors who were eager to show their support to the French government. This paper attempts to shed light on issues that might be raised in the coming days or weeks.