In a tragic incident, Islamist militants launched a deadly assault in Niger’s northwest, resulting in the loss of at least 23 soldiers and leaving 17 others injured, as confirmed by the defence ministry.
The militants, numbering over 100 and armed with motorbikes, utilized improvised explosive devices and suicide bombs to carry out a devastating ambush on the military unit. The attack occurred as the unit was returning from an operation in the Tillabéri region.
The defence ministry reported that 30 of the attackers were neutralized during the confrontation.
Niger’s military rulers, following a coup last year, decided to sever ties with their western allies, prompting the departure of French forces who had been spearheading the international effort against the jihadist threat.
Recently, authorities announced the cancellation of an agreement permitting US troops to be stationed in Niger, reflecting a shift in the country’s strategic alliances and approach to security challenges.
