Nasionalberita.com – Amidst the rumblings of invasion threats from West African bloc nations, Niger, under the grip of a military junta, has made a decision to close its airspace. This decision serves as a resolute step by the junta to safeguard territorial integrity amidst concerns of military incursion.
In a tone no less firm, the junta has declared that any foreign incursion into their airspace would trigger a strong and swift response. This threat is more than mere rhetoric; it’s a part of the junta’s defense strategy they believe will uphold the sovereignty of their nation.
Meanwhile, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is wasting no time in issuing an ultimatum. They’ve loudly conveyed their decision to launch a military intervention if the junta doesn’t restore power to the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum, before the arrival of Sunday.
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However, amidst the ticking of the set deadline, the junta stands unwavering. The power they seized through a military coup on July 26th remains a strong grasp even as the threat of intervention looms.
Against this backdrop, Niger’s airspace has been declared closed since Sunday, August 6th, 2023. The message from Niger’s military government announced this step resolutely, adding that any violation would receive a bold and instantaneous response.
The military junta, officially known as the National Council for the Protection of the Homeland, has reported pre-deployment of regional hostile forces, which is the rationale behind their vigilance. They explicitly state that any nation involved in intervention would be viewed as a party engaged in the conflict.
In a decision that impacts not only the region but also geopolitics, the coup leaders have garnered extensive public support and even backing from the governments of Mali [Name redacted]ina Faso. This support fuels the junta’s actions.
Facing pressures from various quarters, Niger’s junta has also turned to assistance from the Russian mercenary group, Wagner Group. However, Kremlin’s and Wagner Group’s responses remain silent.
Amidst all this, the political stage and tensions continue to unfold. Senior junta official, General Mohamed Toumba, is rallying the people and urging them to stand united. Meanwhile, ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum, is calling for Western military intervention, arguing that support from the United States and ECOWAS is crucial to counterbalance Russia’s influence.
As these developments unfold, both the United States and the European Union have imposed sanctions on Niger post-coup, and France has expressed support for ECOWAS’ efforts to restore power to Bazoum. However, whether France will directly engage in military intervention remains a significant question.
