French-backed Malian forces are battling Islamist militants in a key town that leads toward the city of Goa, a militant stronghold in the country's north.
Residents and security officials say French and Malian forces fought rebels in Hombori, on Friday, a town about 250 kilometers from Gao.
In another development Friday, the French News Agency said Islamic fighters have blown up a strategic bridge near the border with Niger. The road leads to the city of Gao.