Official says, “The United States has not restarted counterterrorism operations, or any security force assistance training with Niger.”
Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh recently reported that the Department of Defense has resumed flying missions over Niger to surveil the country and collect reconnaissance for the troops stationed there.
“We can confirm that the U.S. forces in Niger commenced [intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance] flight ops to monitor for threats and for force protection,” Press Secretary Singh stated.
The U.S. had stationed 1,000 troops in Niger to support counterterrorism in the country, but operations were paused when a coup overthrew Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26. The troops’ mission is still paused, but they continue to be stationed in Niger to safely move troops and equipment.
“The United States has not restarted counterterrorism operations, or any security force assistance training with Niger,” the defense press secretary clarified. “The U.S. … always reserves the right to conduct operations to protect our forces and personnel if required.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Lloyd Austin as he leads the Department of Defense.
- For General Langley as he commands the U.S. Africa Command.
- For discernment for the president and his military advisors as they respond to developments in Niger.
Sources: Department of Defense
