Malian soldiers

Hostages held in Mali hotel after jihadist attack kills 7

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 U.N. peacekeeper was also killed. It was unclear if the peacekeeper was included in the death toll. He said that at least six people were being held inside the hotel.