Al Qaeda-linked militants claim attack on Niger airport that killed 13
Militants attacked the Diori Hamani International Airport and military airbase in Niamey on 18 June 2026. The assault resulted in 13 deaths and 4 injuries. Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin claimed responsibility for the operation.
What changed
New details confirm the date of the attack and the number of militants killed and suspects arrested.
Live updates
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JNIM claims attack on Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey
confidence 90%Militants attacked the Diori Hamani International Airport and military airbase in Niamey on 18 June 2026. The assault resulted in 13 deaths and 4 injuries. Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin claimed responsibility for the operation.
What's confirmed:
- The attack on Diori Hamani International Airport occurred on 18 June 2026.
- 13 people died and 4 others were injured in the assault.
- Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin claimed responsibility for the attack.
- Diori Hamani International Airport serves as both an international airport and a military airbase.
Still unconfirmed:
- 22 attackers were killed during the operation.
- 20 suspects were arrested following the attack.
- A separate attack at the airport in January 2026 caused 20 deaths and 4 injuries.
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Al Qaeda Affiliate Claims Responsibility for Niamey Airport Attack
confidence 100%Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin, an Al Qaeda affiliate, claimed responsibility for an attack on the airport and military airbase in Niamey. The assault began early Thursday and lasted several hours. The government reports 11 security personnel and two civilians were killed.
What's confirmed:
- Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin claimed responsibility for the attack on the airport and military airbase in Niamey.
- The attack resulted in the deaths of 11 security personnel and two civilians.
- The assault took place on Thursday in Niger's capital.
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Armed Attack Hits Niamey Airport in Niger
confidence 90%Gunmen attacked the airport in Niger's capital, resulting in casualties among security forces and civilians. Reports indicate the assault involved sustained gunfire and explosions. Niger security forces fought the gunmen at the site.
What's confirmed:
- Gunmen attacked the airport in Niger's capital.
- Explosions and gunfire occurred during the attack.
- Niger security forces engaged in battle with the gunmen at the airport.
- The Niger government stated that 11 members of security forces were killed.
- Soldiers and civilians were killed in the attack.
Still unconfirmed:
- Al Qaeda-linked militants claimed the attack.