The Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) has slammed a "terrorist" attack on a military camp in northern Mali's Timbuktu region, leaving more than ten persons killed.

In a statement on Monday, the ISESCO this terrorist act came within the context of terrorist acts that target Sahel region countries by criminal groups.

The ISESCO voiced support for the government of Mali, calling on member states to ask the international community to back Mali in its war against terrorism.

Earlier on Monday another military source confirmed the ambush, saying it had targeted a unit of the National Guard based in Gourma-Rharous and left around 10 men dead.

The attack comes two days after two Malian soldiers were killed and four others injured in an ambush in the centre of the west African country.