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Jun 19, 2026 Major2
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Algeria and African Union Condemn Terrorist Attack on Niger's Airport and Military Base
Algeria and the African Union condemned a terrorist attack on Niger's Diori Hamani International Airport and nearby military base in Niamey that killed 11 security personnel and two civilians. Both entities praised Niger's swift security response and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting counter-terrorism efforts and regional stability.
Quick Facts
Who
Algeria
What
terrorist attack on airport and military facilities
When
Thursday, June 19, 2026
Where
Diori Hamani International Airport
- terrorist attack on airport and military facilities
- armed gunmen assault
- explosions and sustained gunfire
- security forces repelled attack
- security forces killed terrorists
Algeria and the African Union issued strong condemnations on Thursday following a terrorist attack on Diori Hamani International Airport and nearby military facilities in Niamey, Niger. The attack resulted in 13 deaths: 11 members of the defense and security forces and two civilians, according to Niger's Ministry of Defense. Local media reported that security forces killed 22 terrorists involved in the assault.
Algeria's Foreign Ministry released a statement expressing its "strong condemnation and deep denunciation" of what it called a "heinous attack" aimed at undermining Niger's security and stability. The Algerian government reaffirmed its full solidarity with Niger's government and people, describing the attack as a "painful ordeal" for the neighboring nation.
The African Union, through AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, similarly condemned the terrorist attack and commended Niger's defense and security forces for their swift response in repelling the assault and securing airport facilities. The AU statement emphasized solidarity with Niger in combating terrorism and violent extremism.
Both Algeria and the AU reiterated their commitment to supporting Niger's efforts against terrorism. Algeria emphasized its dedication to strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation to address threats to peace and security in the shared regional space, while the AU reaffirmed its support for preserving peace, stability, and security across the African continent.
Why This Matters
This attack underscores the persistent terrorist threat facing the Sahel region and highlights the international response required to counter it. The coordinated condemnation by Algeria and the African Union signals unified regional resolve to support Niger's security forces and combat violent extremism—critical for stability in West Africa and the broader African continent, with implications for global counter-terrorism partnerships.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireTerrorist attack on Diori Hamani International Airport and military air base in Niamey
Jun 18, 2026
WireSecurity forces killed 22 terrorists involved in the assault
Jun 18, 2026
WireAlgerian Foreign Ministry issued statement condemning the attack
Jun 19, 2026
WireTerrorist attack on Diori Hamani International Airport and military base in Niamey, Niger
Jun 19, 2026
WireAlgeria's Foreign Ministry issues strong condemnation
Jun 19, 2026
WireAfrican Union Commission Chairperson condemns attack and praises swift security response