Niger crisis/ Military intervention: the categorical refusal of the Algerian authorities affects France’s plan
Algeria is opposed to any military intervention in Niger to reinstate deposed president Mohamed Bazoum. ECOWAS had activated its standby force for this operation, but this option is widely contested. According to reports, France has requested overflight of Algerian territory for military intervention in Niger. This request is not to the liking of the Algerian authorities.
Algeria and Niger share a border more than 950 km long, and the country has repeatedly affirmed its total rejection of military intervention in Niger, asserting instead its support for the restoration of constitutional order by peaceful means.
France, which had previously threatened the junta with a military operation to free President Bazoum, is now preparing to put its military forces behind the junta to carry out its threats.
The Algerian authorities are firm following France’s request to fly over its territory in order to attack Niger.
This request was rejected by Algeria, according to a press release. Algeria’s response is «firm and unequivocal».
Algeria’s position against any military intervention in the region, and in favour of a diplomatic solution, has been strongly welcomed by several parties on the continent.
Observers are calling on African leaders and the entire African community not to give in to manipulation in order to save the continent from the war that France wants to start.
Rayan Aziz
