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Islamic State Claims Niamey Airport Attack as Niger Reports Repelled Assault, Flights Restored

The site hosts an air force base with drone facilities next to a large uranium stockpile, underscoring its strategic value.

Overview

  • IS claimed responsibility via its Amaq channel, according to SITE, for the overnight strike on Diori Hamani International Airport and its co-located base.
  • Niger’s defense ministry reported four soldiers wounded, 20 attackers killed and 11 arrests, with state TV saying a French national was among the dead without providing evidence.
  • General Abdourahamane Tiani accused France, Benin and Ivory Coast of sponsoring the attack and thanked Russian partners, claims that were not independently verified.
  • ASKY Airlines and Air Côte d’Ivoire said parked aircraft sustained damage but reported no passenger or crew injuries, as most airport operations resumed under heavy security.
  • Security sources said a large yellowcake shipment stored at the airport was unaffected, while satellite images showed scorched areas and regional reporters cited possible use of drones, mortars and motorbikes.