Seven dead in Islamic extremist attack

Jihadists stormed a hotel where United Nations staff were staying in central Mali Friday, seizing hostages and killing at least five Malian soldiers in one of the most brazen attacks in months, the government said. Mali’s army continued to surround the Hotel Byblos in Sevare north of Bamako, battling militants into the evening. Officials said at least two extremists and five soldiers had been killed. The government said forces detained seven suspected militants. Lt.- Col. Diarran Kone earlier said a UN peacekeeper was also killed. It was unclear if the peacekeeper was included in the death toll.