ICYMI: Niger Shuts Down Red Cross Operations Over Alleged Ties to Armed Militants

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has officially suspended its humanitarian operations in Niger following an order from the country’s government to shut down its offices and leave. The decision marks the end of the organisation’s 35-year presence in the West African nation.

In a statement issued on Thursday, 5th June, the ICRC confirmed the closure of its offices and the departure of all foreign staff. The move comes four months after the government first ordered the group to cease operations.

ICRC Regional Director for Africa, Patrick Youssef, described the development as deeply regrettable.

Our priority in Niger has been to help the most vulnerable people affected by ongoing armed conflicts and to do so with transparency, independence, neutrality and impartiality,” he said.

However, the Nigerien government, led by junta head General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has accused the Red Cross of holding meetings and collaborating with Islamist insurgent groups operating in the country. Tchiani made the allegations public in a televised interview in May, stating that the ICRC was expelled in February over its alleged contact with armed groups.

However, the ICRC has denied any wrongdoing. The organisation explained that, as part of its humanitarian mandate, it engages in dialogue with all parties involved in conflict, whether state actors or non-state armed groups—but does not provide them with financial, logistical, or any other form of support.

Following the government’s February directive, the ICRC complied by removing its international personnel from Niger. It also sought discussions with authorities to understand the reasons for the expulsion and offer clarifications, but said those efforts were unsuccessful. Despite the suspension, the organisation said it is willing to resume humanitarian activities if permitted.

Niger, on the other hand, has increasingly turned away from Western partners. Its government has expelled French and other Western forces, aligning instead with Russia and neighbouring governments in Mali and Burkina Faso.

Read More: Niger Army Arrests Militants in Counter-Terrorism Operation in Tillaberi Region

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