Stories from Niger

Gunfire and explosions were heard at Niamey airport in Niger for several hours. The attack occurred amid a severe economic crisis. Over the past day, the aviation, missile forces, and artillery of the Defense Forces hit 17 areas of enemy troop concentration, four artillery systems, and two UAV control points. Gunfire erupted early Thursday morning at the airport in Niamey, the capital of Niger, according to residents who spoke to AFP. Details regarding the nature of the attack and potential casualties are still emerging. Drones were detected approaching the Sumy region, with Putivl and Konotop at risk. This incident follows a suspected jihadist attack on the same site in January. The country has been engaged in a decade-long fight against militants. This is the second report of an attack on a Nigerien airport today.

The President of Benin visited Niger, marking the first such visit since a coup sparked tensions in the region.

Teachers in Niger have announced a general strike, citing issues with the military junta's approach. The strike is expected to impact educational services across the country. The strike is in response to unresolved labor disputes. The reasons for the strike and its potential duration are not yet detailed. Negotiations between the teachers' union and the government are ongoing. The reasons for the strike were not immediately specified but likely involve demands related to working conditions or compensation.

Niger has signed an agreement with Iran concerning security and trade. The agreement was announced on Mastodon, with hashtags suggesting a geopolitical alignment against the US and Israel.

Amnesty International is calling for an investigation into alleged civilian deaths resulting from a military airstrike in Niger. The organization is seeking accountability for the incident.

The Niger army has been engaged in conflict for over 10 years, leading to the displacement of approximately two million people. These individuals have fled their homes in the Niger-Benue border area.

Niger's military regime has suspended about ten French media outlets, including France 24, Agence France Presse, and RFI. The suspensions were imposed by the military regime. In Burkina Faso, TV5MONDE has been banned, following previous suspensions of Western media. These actions are attributed to the three military-led regimes of the Alliance of Sahel States, which claim a sovereignist line and are increasing control over information and media.

Niger's opposition has claimed victory in the Supreme Court. This development follows attempts to weaken the opposition's influence. The court's decision is a event for the country's political landscape. The specific outcome of the court's decision was not detailed.

The unified force of three military-led states has launched an intensive air campaign to combat armed groups in the Sahel region. The government in Niamey announced the operation follows security tensions involving armed groups coordinating with liberation fronts.

Several hundred participants gathered at the Jaddo Secou de Nihame cultural center in Niamey on Thursday. The event follows recent political developments in the region. Hundreds of participants gathered at the Jadocé Cultural Center in Niamey to support Mali.