Niger’s newly installed junta has issued a stern warning to West African countries, vowing to respond swiftly to any aggression directed towards it.
This statement comes just days before the expiration of an ultimatum given by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore order in the country after a recent coup.
The landlocked nation, which is the fourth ECOWAS member hit by a coup since 2020, faces potential sanctions and the threat of military intervention if the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum is not reinstated by the given deadline.
Amidst the escalating tensions, the junta has also made significant diplomatic changes, ending the mandates of its ambassadors to four countries and scrapping military pacts with France.
Warning of Immediate Response to Aggression:
The junta of Niger, in response to the ultimatum given by ECOWAS, has warned that it will react swiftly to any aggression or attempted aggression against the State of Niger.
The Niger Defence and Security Forces have declared their readiness to take immediate and unannounced action against any member of the regional bloc, except for suspended friendly countries.
This statement appears to be a clear signal of the junta’s determination to defend its interests and sovereignty, despite the international pressure to reinstate the ousted president.
Diplomatic Changes and Scrapping of Military Pacts:
In addition to its warning to West African countries, Niger’s junta has taken diplomatic measures in response to the recent developments.
It has decided to terminate the functions of its ambassadors to France, Nigeria, Togo, and the United States.
Blaming France’s response to the situation and its “careless attitude,” the junta has also chosen to cancel cooperation agreements in the field of security and defense with the country.
These actions indicate a significant shift in Niger’s foreign relations, particularly with France, one of its key allies in combating the jihadist insurgency in the Sahel region.
Niger’s Role in the Sahel Conflict:
Niger has played a crucial role in Western strategies to combat the jihadist insurgency that has plagued the Sahel since 2012.
With both France and the United States stationing significant troop numbers in the country, Niger’s stability and cooperation have been essential in addressing the security challenges in the region.
However, the recent coup and the junta’s response have raised concerns about the future of these partnerships and their impact on the fight against terrorism in the area.
Conclusion:
As the deadline set by ECOWAS approaches, tensions continue to escalate in Niger, with the junta issuing strong warnings against potential aggression.
The diplomatic changes made by the junta, particularly regarding its ambassadors and cooperation agreements with France, signal a shift in the country’s foreign policy.
These developments have wider implications for the regional security landscape, especially given Niger’s pivotal role in combating the Sahel insurgency.
The international community closely watches the situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution and a return to stability in the West African nation.
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