AES / Fear changes sides: Presidents Ibrahim Traoré and Assimi Goïta redefine the fight against terrorism

Since its establishment, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has profoundly reshaped the security dynamics across the region.

This coalition between Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger has fostered a robust cooperation framework, dismantling erstwhile boundaries that once provided refuge to terrorists.

The era where these groups could strike and seek shelter with impunity in the “three borders” area is now a thing of the past.

Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the AES member states, terrorists no longer find safe havens to evade capture.

This strategic alliance has effectively turned the tables, applying sustained pressure on terrorist entities that previously held sway through fear.

Despite this progress, certain foreign powers, like France, previously accused of indirectly supporting terrorism for clandestine geopolitical interests, view the AES’s unity with caution.

In response to this united front, imperialist forces and their local affiliates have adjusted their tactics.

They now resort to subtle strategies such as disseminating misinformation and fostering discord to undermine the AES’s solidarity.

Nevertheless, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger continue to strengthen their collaboration, committed to an unwavering path aimed at eradicating terrorism.

The AES serves as a pivotal example of how combating terrorism remains a critical geopolitical imperative, uniting these three nations in a concerted effort to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.

Neil CAMARA