News|MilitaryNiger military gov’t says France, Benin, Ivory Coast behind airport attack‘They should be ready to hear us roar,’ says military ruler Tiani, who thanked Russian troops for defending airbase.
The military government of Niger has alleged that France, Benin, and Ivory Coast were involved in an attack on a military base at Niamey’s international airport. This claim was made by General Abdourahamane Tiani, who took control following a coup in…
The military government of Niger has alleged that France, Benin, and Ivory Coast were involved in an attack on a military base at Niamey’s international airport. This claim was made by General Abdourahamane Tiani, who took control following a coup in July 2023. The accusations were broadcast on state television, although no evidence was provided to support these claims.
The accused countries—France, Benin, and Ivory Coast—have not yet responded to these allegations. The claims followed a visit by the military leader to the airbase at Diori Hamani International Airport, which is approximately 10 kilometers from the presidential palace. Reports of explosions and shootings occurred from Wednesday night into Thursday.
According to Defence Minister Salifou Modi, the attack lasted around 30 minutes before a coordinated air and ground response was implemented. The defence ministry reported that four military personnel were injured and 20 attackers were killed. State television stated that a French national was among the casualties. Additionally, eleven individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident.
The military government of Niger has alleged that France, Benin, and Ivory Coast were involved in an attack on a military base at Niamey’s international airport.
General Tiani expressed gratitude to Russian forces stationed at the base for their role in defending the area, acknowledging Niger's growing military ties with Moscow. Russia has been providing military assistance to Niger in its efforts to address a rebellion linked to al-Qaeda and ISIL. Neither of these groups has claimed responsibility for the recent attack.
Since the coup in 2023, General Tiani has led Niger after overthrowing the elected civilian president, Mohamed Bazoum. The country is part of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), along with Mali and Burkina Faso, and faces ongoing challenges in managing a rebellion that has resulted in significant casualties and displacement across the region.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
