"The Islamic State in the Sahel has claimed responsibility for an audacious assault at the international airport and adjacent air force base in Niamey, the capital of Niger, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, which tracks jihadist activity and communications worldwide. The attack, which began shortly after midnight on Thursday, reportedly involved motorcycle-riding militants who launched a surprise and coordinated strike using heavy weaponry and drones, according to statements released via the IS in the Sahel's propaganda arm, Amaq News Agency."
"Niger, which has been led by a junta since the deposition of democratically elected Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023, has previously blamed the chaos on its neighbours Benin and Cote d'Ivoire, as well as former colonial ruler France, without presenting any backing evidence. We have heard them bark, they should be ready to hear us roar, the head of the junta, Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, said on national television on Thursday."
Islamic State in the Sahel claimed responsibility for an assault on Niamey airport and the nearby air force base. The attack began shortly after midnight and involved motorcycle-riding militants using heavy weapons and drones. The IS affiliate has been linked to strikes that killed over 120 people in Tillaberi and to the October abduction of an American pilot. Gunfire and explosions hit at least three aircraft, including one Air Cote d'Ivoire plane and two Asky planes. Asky staff were reported to be in their hotel with passports held by authorities. A junta has ruled Niger since July 2023, increasing tensions with neighbours and France.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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