Several towns and a prison have been attacked, according to the military, residents and security sources.
The reports of the attacks come from the cities of Gao, Sévaré, Aguelhok and Anéfis, as well as a prison in Kenieroba.
The fighting began early Saturday morning, more than two months after the two groups attacked the ruling junta, killing the junta's defence minister, Sadio Camara.
Anéfis and Aguelhok are the last places where the Malian army maintains a presence in the Kidal region, following the major attacks at the end of April.
