In brief
Algeria is sending soldiers to Niger for the first time since the 1973 Arab‑Israeli war, aiming to protect gas pipelines and other economic infrastructure. The move follows years of tense relations after the 2023 coup and a 2025 diplomatic rift. Algeria’s parliament approved the deployment, arguing it is for economic security, not war. The troops will guard key facilities near the Libyan border and support Niger’s fight against Islamist militants linked to al‑Qaeda and ISIS.
Algeria is preparing to move soldiers into Niger for the first time since the 1973 Arab‑Israeli conflict.
The decision follows a visit by Niger’s defence minister, who has asked neighbour Algeria for help fighting armed groups that may be linked to al‑Qaeda or the Islamic State.
Algeria has deep economic interests in Niger, notably a planned gas pipeline that would carry Nigerian gas across Niger to Algeria. It is also developing oil together with Nigeral’s government, with two wells estimated to hold 168 million and 100 million barrels.
The move is part of a broader effort to rebuild ties after Niger recalled its ambassador in 2025 over a drone incident that hurt Algeria’s partner Mali.
In a tight‑vote, 148 of 174 senators backed the plan, and the lower house confirmed it shortly thereafter. The count of soldiers and the timeline are still undisclosed.
Senator Belkacem Boulghiti clarified that the mission is not a war effort, but to safeguard Algeria’s financial interests abroad. It will be the first time Algeria deploys forces overseas since its constitution allowed it in 2020.
Algeria has had a rocky relationship with Niger, condemning the 2023 coup that installed General Abdourahamane Tchiani and unfavourably reacting to Mali’s military takeover. Relations improved recently when President Tebboune sent jets to help suppress a coup attempt and donated four helicopters to Niger.
