Northern Benin experienced one of its deadliest terrorist attacks when Islamic militants targeted military posts in the Alibori region, resulting in the deaths of at least 54 soldiers, according to the Beninese government.
Who is the Responsible for Benin Terrorist Attacks?
Initially, authorities reported eight fatalities, but the death toll was later revised upward.
Al-Qaeda-affiliated group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for the attack.
Asserting that 70 soldiers were killed, as reported by the SITE Intelligence Group.
The assault occurred in the W National Park, a protected area that spans Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
This tri-border zone has become increasingly volatile.
Due to the spillover of extremist violence from the Sahel region.
The area has been a hotspot for cross-border attacks by jihadist groups seeking to expand their influence into West Africa’s coastal states.
UAE Expresses Solidarity With Northern Benin
The United Arab Emirates strongly condemned the terrorist attack that targeted military sites in the north of the Republic of Benin, resulting in the deaths of dozens of soldiers.
His Excellency Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, emphasized that the UAE strongly denounces these criminal acts.
He added that it consistently rejects all forms of violence and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability, which are contrary to international law.
His Excellency also expressed his sincere condolences and sympathy to the government and people of Benin.
As well as to the families and relatives of the victims of this heinous and cowardly attack.
The terrorist attacks in Benin underscore the growing threat of jihadist expansion into West Africa’s coastal nations.
Highlighting the need for enhanced regional cooperation and security measures to combat extremist violence.
