TRIPOLI, LIBYA — The Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement strongly condemning the recent "heinous" terrorist attack targeting Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, the capital of neighboring Niger.

The diplomatic rebuke underscores growing alarm in Tripoli regarding the volatile security environment across the Sahel region.

The assault, which targeted the dual civilian airport and strategic military airbase, was launched by heavily armed jihadi groups operating in the region. Militants utilizing coordinated tactics attempted to infiltrate the secure perimeter, resulting in an intense firefight with Nigerien security forces.

The attack resulted in severe casualties, with dozens of individuals, including soldiers and civilians, killed or injured in the crossfire. It also caused significant infrastructural damage as multiple aircraft parked on the tarmac sustained hits from gunfire and explosions. Furthermore, the assault posed a major strategic threat, given that the airport functions as the command headquarters for regional defense alliances, making it a high-value target for insurgent groups.

In its official release, Libya expressed its "strong condemnation and deep denunciation" of the criminal operation. The government extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and leadership of Niger.

"Libya stands firmly in absolute solidarity with the Republic of Niger during this painful ordeal," the Ministry statement read. "We completely reject all forms of violence, extremism, and terrorism that deliberately aim to undermine the sovereignty, security, and stability of neighboring African states."

Geopolitical analysts warn that the shifting strategy of groups like al-Qaeda-linked JNIM and Islamic State affiliates to attack major urban transport hubs signals a dangerous expansion of the Sahelian conflict.

By targeting Niger's primary gateway, extremist factions are attempting to project power beyond remote border communities and directly disrupt state infrastructure.

Libyan authorities emphasized that securing shared borders and combating the cross-border proliferation of violent extremist networks remains a mutual priority for long-term peace in North and West Africa.