Security measures have been reinforced around diplomatic missions in Nouakchott, especially the French Embassy, by the Mauritanian security services, Xinhua heard on Friday.

The measures have been taken at the same time when the French forces are intervening in Northern Mali, where they have been deployed to support the Malian forces to dislodge the armed rebels who have been occupying the region for several months.

On several occasions, the terrorists allied to the al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQMI) and the Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) have threatened to attack French interests in the sub-region if the country's troops intervene in Northern Mali.

They also indicated that "any intervention will be a direct threat to the life of seven French hostages who are today held by the terrorists in Northern Mali."

The confrontation between the Malian army which is being supported by French forces and the rebel forces, has raised a lot of anxiety among the residents of Mauritanian provinces neighboring Mali.

The two countries share a long border of over 2,000 km, with localities and people who are linked by strong historical, religious and economic ties.

The Mauritanian authorities have already announced their position against any military intervention in the offensive against the armed Islamists in Northern Mali. The authorities noted that an intervention will only happen if it was meant to "defend Mauritania's territory."