West African Nations Unite for Military Intervention in Niger to Restore Democracy

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has agreed to activate a standby force as a last resort for possible military intervention in Niger if diplomatic efforts fail to restore democracy after the recent coup. The exact date for intervention has not been disclosed, but ECOWAS is ready to act when ordered. The defense chiefs of ECOWAS member states have fine-tuned details of the potential military operation, while still seeking peaceful engagement with Niger's military leaders. The coup leaders have defied calls to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been held with his family since the coup. ECOWAS has a poor track record in preventing coups in the region, and any use of force could further destabilize the Sahel region.