Diori Hamani International Airport attack
On 29 January 2026, the Islamic State – Sahel Province launched a large scale attack on Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, Niger. The attack resulted in the deaths of twenty ISSP fighters and the capture of eleven others.
Background
In 2025, militants affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State stepped up their campaigns across the Sahel, placing additional strain on the region’s already fragile security environment. The escalation further weakened stability in Niger, which had been a key security partner of Western countries until the military coup in 2023.Attack
In the early hours of 29 January 2026, heavy gunfire and explosions were reported around the airport and the adjacent military base. A group of 30+ militants, reportedly riding motorcycles, using drones and mortars, launched a coordinated assault on Air Base 101 and the civilian side. According to Defence Minister Salifou Modi, fighting continued for 30 minutes before Nigerien ground and air forces, with support from the Russian Africa Corps stationed at the base, regained control of the site.According to the Nigerien Government, 20 attackers were killed and 11 were captured; four Nigerien soldiers were wounded during the engagement. A plane operated by Air Côte d'Ivoire, located on the tarmac of the airport, was attacked during the clashes, resulting in damage to the aircraft's fuselage and right wing. Two Asky Airlines planes and a helicopter were also damaged.
Some sources alleged a much higher death toll for both Nigerien and Russian security forces. According to unofficial reports, 24 Nigerien soldiers and three Russian mercenaries were killed in the clashes. This estimate remains unconfirmed.
Islamic State involvement
The Islamic State-linked Amaq News Agency claimed that its militants had carried out a "surprise and coordinated attack" on the airport in Niamey. ISSP claimed the attack had caused "significant damage", later releasing photos and a video of the assault.Analysts have noted Hausa and Kanuri speakers in footage recorded by Amaq New Agency, two languages spoken mainly in Nigeria. Which could indicate cooperation between the Sahel and West Africa Provinces during the assault.
Reactions
Niger’s military government accused France, Benin, and the Ivory Coast of allegedly sponsoring the attack. General Abdourahamane Tiani, who came to power following a coup in 2023, made the allegations in a televised address, naming French President Emmanuel Macron, Beninese President Patrice Talon, and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara. No evidence was presented to support the claims.On 30 January 2026, the United States added Niger to the Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ list, which warns of armed conflict and terrorism that can harm foreigners.