"Three African Nations Unite in Sahel Security Agreement"

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, three West African Sahel nations ruled by military juntas, have signed a security pact called the Alliance of Sahel States. The pact aims to establish a collective defense and mutual assistance framework, with the countries promising to come to each other's aid in case of rebellion or external aggression. The three nations are facing challenges in containing Islamic insurgents and have strained relations with neighboring countries and international partners due to recent coups. The signing of the pact comes as France's relations with the three states have soured since the coups, leading to the withdrawal of French troops and a tense standoff with the junta in Niger.