Recent reports regarding an alleged French request to fly over Algerian airspace for an imminent military operation in Niger have been categorically denied by Paris.
Tensions have escalated in West Africa following reports from Algerian Radio indicating a French request to fly over Algerian airspace in preparation for a military intervention in Niger. However, Paris vehemently denied these claims, stating that no recent clearance request had been filed. A high-ranking French military official cited by Le Figaro stated that France had no intention of attacking Niger.
The climate of distrust between the two countries is exacerbated by previous incidents, such as Algeria’s refusal in 2021 to allow French military aircraft to fly over its airspace while operating in northern Mali. This situation also arises in the context of controversial statements made by President Emmanuel Macron, which had sparked a diplomatic crisis between Algiers and Paris.
Niger’s new strongman, General Abdourahamane Tiani, warned the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against any military intervention in his country. He expressed his skepticism about a potential aggression attempt but emphasized that if such action were to occur, it would not be as straightforward as some might think.
Algeria, which shares a border of over 950 km with Niger, reiterated its complete rejection of military intervention in the neighboring country. Instead, Algeria supports the restoration of constitutional order through peaceful means, in response to the military takeover in Niger last July.
