Islamic State-Linked Militants Increase Attacks on Civilians in Western Niger, Human Rights Watch Reports

Islamic State-Linked Militants Increase Attacks on Civilians in Western Niger, Human Rights Watch Reports
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Islamic State-affiliated militants have intensified attacks in western Niger’s Tillaberi region, killing over 127 people in five separate incidents since March, according to a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report released by Reuters on Wednesday. The attacks highlight the Nigerien authorities’ failure to protect civilians in an area near the borders of Burkina Faso and Mali, a known hotspot for jihadist activity linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda.

Witnesses identified the attackers as members of the Islamic State in the Sahel Province (ISSP) based on their clothing and prior threats. HRW’s report also noted that Niger’s military ignored warnings and villagers’ pleas for protection. The government and military representatives were unavailable for comment, and Reuters could not independently verify the accounts.

Niger’s military junta, which seized power in 2023 citing insecurity, had previously seen improvements in security with support from French and U.S. forces. However, the recent surge in violence underscores ongoing threats amid strained relations with Western allies. HRW called on Niger’s government to investigate and prosecute what it described as apparent war crimes.