Russia, Libya, and Qatar have condemned the June 18 terrorist attack that targeted the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, capital of the Republic of Niger.
Niger’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed that 11 soldiers, two civilians, and 22 assailants died in the incident, the second assault on the same airport this year.
Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate, has claimed responsibility for the attack, while Niger blames armed mercenaries sponsored by a Western nation.
Moscow said the latest ambush was an attempt to undermine the stability of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), of which Niger is a member. Others are Burkina Faso and Mali.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reaffirmed Russia’s solidarity with the Niger population and leadership, headed by President Abdourahamane Tchiani.
Libya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as a criminal act aimed at weakening Niger’s security and stability and threatening the safety of citizens and vital infrastructure.
The government expressed solidarity with the West African nation, declaring its rejection of all forms of terrorism, extremism, and violence, regardless of their motives or justifications.
Tripoli called for enhanced regional and international fight against the realities, which pose a threat to security and stability across the Sahel region and the entire African continent.
Libya backs the Nigerien authorities’ efforts to boost security and protect state institutions, urging increased regional cooperation and coordination to address cross-border security issues.
The State of Qatar similarly denounced the fatal onslaught, restating its “firm stance against violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, regardless of the motives or reasons.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Niger, and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
