Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani: We have heard them bark, they should be ready to hear us roar. Photograph: APView image in fullscreenGen Abdourahmane Tchiani: We have heard them bark, they should be ready to hear us roar. Photograph: APIslamic State claims attack on international airport and airbase in NigerMotorcycle-riding militants launch strikes using heavy weaponry and drones, damaging planes belonging to Ivorian carrier and Togolese airlineIslamic State in the Sahel has claimed responsibility for an audacious assault at the international airport and adjacent air force base in Niamey, the capital of Niger, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, which tracks jihadist activity and communications worldwide.The attack, which began shortly after midnight on Thursday, reportedly involved motorcycle-riding militants who launched a surprise and coordinated strike using heavy weaponry and drones, according to statements released via IS in the Sahels propaganda arm, Amaq news agency.The regional IS affiliate has been linked to high-profile attacks in Niger in recent months, killing more than 120 people in strikes targeting the Tillabéri region in September, and abducting an American pilot in October.Sahel-based jihadists are extending their reach. Can a fractured region push back?Read moreThe gunfire and explosions in the airport, which is about 6 miles (10km) from the presidential palace and Base Aérienne 101, a military base previously used by US and then Russian troops, hit at lea
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