Niger Military Government Accuses France, Benin, Ivory Coast of Airport Attack. Niamey, Niger — Niger’s military government has accused France, Benin, and Ivory Coast of sponsoring an attack on a military base at Niamey’s international airport, according to statements made on state television by General Abdourahamane Tiani.
The general, who seized power in a 2023 coup, made these allegations without providing any evidence to support them.
The attack, which involved heavy gunfire and explosions, took place near the airport in Niger’s capital, according to local reports.
The incident was later repelled, with the defense ministry stating that the attack lasted approximately 30 minutes before an “air and ground response.”Four military personnel were injured, and 20 attackers were killed, including a French national, state television reported.
General Tiani expressed gratitude to “Russian partners “for their role in repelling the attack.
There has been no official response from the governments of France, Benin, or Ivory Coast regarding the accusations.
The sources do not mention any official response from these countries, and it remains unclear how they will respond to the allegations made by Niger’s military government.
The situation is likely to strain relations between Niger and the countries it accused of sponsoring the attack. General Tiani’s comments reflect the recent deterioration of Niger’s relations with France and neighboring nations that he views as French proxies in the region. Further details are expected as the situation develops.
The government stated in a communiqué that it is investigating the incident and will provide more information as it becomes available.
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Source: Al Jazeera [aljazeera.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
