France Completes Military Withdrawal from Niger, Closes Embassy

Move Raises Concerns Over Counterterrorism Efforts in Sahel, as Niger Forms New Defense Alliance with Mali and Burkina Faso

France has completed its military withdrawal from Niger, following demands from the country's military junta.
The French embassy in Niger has been closed indefinitely due to escalating tensions and restrictions imposed by Niger's military government.
The withdrawal has raised concerns about a gap in the fight against jihadist violence in the Sahel region of Africa.
Niger's junta has formed a new defense alliance with Mali and Burkina Faso, both former French colonies where the military has also seized power.
Analysts warn that the departure of French troops will leave a vacuum that could be exploited by violent extremist organizations.