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Niger Airport Attack: IS Militants Roam Freely
2 Feb
Summary
- Islamic State militants attacked Niger's main international airport.
- Militants set off explosions and damaged commercial aircraft.
- The U.S. ordered non-essential personnel to leave Niger due to risks.
Islamic State militants launched a significant attack on Niger's primary international airport, causing explosions and damaging commercial aircraft. The assault has intensified international worries regarding security in Niger, leading the United States to direct non-emergency government employees and their families to depart the country due to escalating safety risks.
The incident, claimed by Islamic State's West Africa affiliate, featured gunfire and loud explosions throughout the night. Footage revealed militants on foot and motorbikes firing weapons near passenger planes and hangars, where an explosion later engulfed a UAV and a helicopter in flames.
This attack could further strain regional relations, as Niger's military leader accused the presidents of Benin and Ivory Coast, as well as France, of sponsoring the assault, though no evidence was provided. Benin's government denied the allegation, while Ivory Coast summoned Niger's ambassador.
Two airlines reported minor damage to their aircraft. Niger stated it killed 20 attackers, including a French national, and injured 11. Niger, similar to its Sahel neighbors, continues to struggle with jihadist group insurgencies.
