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Niamey Airport Attack
The United Arab Emirates condemned a terrorist attack that targeted Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey, saying the assault resulted in dozens of deaths and injuries.
Lovin Abu Dhabi reported that the attack took place early Thursday morning when gunmen launched an attack on the airport, which it described as one of Niger’s most strategically important facilities serving both civilian aviation and military operations.
According to Niger’s Defence Ministry as cited by Lovin Abu Dhabi, at least 35 people were killed, including 11 soldiers, two civilians, and 22 attackers.
Lovin Abu Dhabi added that residents living near the airport reported hearing explosions and gunfire shortly after dawn prayers, while security forces moved to contain the situation and launch a manhunt for those involved.
Condemnations and Claims
Lovin Abu Dhabi said the attack was later claimed by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-affiliated group operating across the Sahel region.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its stance in a statement that it maintains its “permanent rejection of all forms of violence, extremism, and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability.”
Algeria also condemned the attack on Niamey’s airport and reiterated its support for Niger in facing terrorism, with the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs saying it offered condolences to victims’ families and solidarity with Niger’s authorities.
Algeria’s statement added that Algeria “reaffirms its full solidarity with the people and government of Niger in facing this odious attack,” stressing support for Niamey in efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen stability.
Regional Security Stakes
The latest attack came as Niger continues to face security challenges linked to extremist groups operating across the region, according to Lovin Abu Dhabi.
Algerian reporting said the attack targeted the Diori Hamani International Airport and a military air base in the capital Niamey, and it cited Nigerien authorities saying security forces repelled the attack and killed 22 of the attackers.
Algerian reporting also described Diori Hamani Airport as Niger’s main air gateway, with strategic importance tied to its proximity to sensitive military and security facilities.
The Kingdom’s foreign ministry also condemned the attack and reiterated its firm stance in rejecting terrorism, expressing solidarity with the government and people of Niger and wishing a swift recovery for all the injured.
