Deadly Jihadi Attack in Niger Raises Western Concerns

Insurgents launched a major attack in Niger, killing 17 soldiers and injuring nearly 24, marking the first significant assault in six months against the country's army. Western powers, concerned about the recent coup by the presidential guard weakening Niger's ability to combat jihadi violence in the Sahel region, have suspended military operations. The attack highlights the security void created by the coup, allowing jihadi groups like the Islamic State and al-Qaida affiliates to assert their presence. Neighboring countries are threatening military action against the coup, while the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, has activated a standby force to restore order. The longer the coup persists, the less likely an intervention becomes, potentially forcing the international community to accept the status quo.