Niger Generals Withdraw Envoy from Abidjan Over President Ouattara's Remarks

Tension rises between Niger and Côte d'Ivoire as Nigerien military authorities recall their envoy from Abidjan following remarks by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, who stated that a military operation should begin soon. Niger accuses Ouattara of being influenced by external powers and claims the aggression against Niger is illegal and senseless. ECOWAS leaders have ordered the deployment of a standby force but have not provided details on a possible military intervention. Experts doubt the feasibility of a risky military operation, and there is internal criticism and hesitation among West African countries regarding troop deployment.