Niamey: The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) was the victim of a cowardly and treacherous aggression perpetrated by the enemies of peace and concord, through terrorist acts, on Thursday, June 18, 2026, near the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, Republic of Niger. Clearly, through the attempt to take control of Niamey Airport, the objective of this latest attack was to undermine the operational capabilities of the Nigerien Armed Forces and, consequently, to reverse the current trend of retreat of armed terrorist groups, regularly defeated on the ground.

According to Burkina Information Agency, thanks to the professionalism, responsiveness, vigilance, and determined commitment of the Nigerien fighting forces, the enemy was routed and suffered yet another crushing defeat. The Confederation of Sahel States condemns in the strongest possible terms this latest manifestation of terrorist violence supported by foreign state sponsors.

The AES Confederation salutes the valor of the defense and security forces of the Republic of Niger, and pays tribute to the people of Niger, in their patriotic work of preserving the sovereignty of Niger and the Sahel. The Confederation of Sahel States remains fully mobilized alongside the Republic of Niger and reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the Authorities and the brotherly People of Niger.

Far from undermining the momentum that guides the confederal dynamic, the recurring and remotely controlled attacks only strengthen the sacred union of the sons and daughters of the AES around the vision of their Heads of State in their struggle to preserve the territorial integrity of the member states, protect the populations and guarantee lasting peace in the Sahel region. The AES Confederation offers its condolences to the bereaved families and sends its wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured in these tragic events.

The Confederation of Sahel States remains on alert to counter any threat against its member states.