Clashes in Niger after troops try to storm presidential palace

Clashes broke out in Niger's capital on Saturday between the presidential guard and elements of the armed forces, following a night of heavy gunfire. A security source stated that insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces attempted to enter the presidential palace but were repelled by the presidential guard, with exchanges of gunfire continuing. An African diplomat indicated the presidential guard remains loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani. The military announced it was gradually regaining control after mutineers took soldiers hostage at a base near the airport. Niger has been governed by a military junta for three years, facing ongoing jihadist violence.

Heavy gunfire and explosions were reported overnight into Saturday morning in Niger's capital, Niamey, near the Diori Hamani International Airport and the Presidential Palace. This marks the third incident of unrest at the airport this year. The ruling military council, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, stated that defense and security forces have been mobilized. While the cause remains unclear, a local lawmaker described it as a "cowardly attack." The airport has been targeted by jihadis twice recently, adding pressure on the military junta which seized power in a 2023 coup and has struggled to contain jihadi violence in the Sahel region.

Gunfire and explosions were reported in several areas of Niger's capital, Niamey, early Saturday. Witnesses heard shots around the Diori Hamani international airport and near the presidential palace, with one witness describing exchanges of heavy gunfire continuing around the palace. Niger has been under military rule since a July 2023 coup that removed President Mohamed Bazoum. The military government, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has shifted alliances, strengthening ties with Russia and distancing itself from Western partners. The government had not immediately commented on the events.