Ahmad 
A security force in Niger was attacked by terrorist groups in the west of the country. The attack resulted in the deaths of 20 soldiers and one civilian, and nine others were injured.
The Nigerian Ministry of Defense announced this incident via a television statement, stressing that a “coalition of armed terrorist groups” carried out the attack near the town of Tassia.
The ministry also indicated that “dozens” of attackers were killed in the confrontation, and that it deployed air and ground reinforcements to pursue those who fled.
The authorities declared a three-day national mourning, starting today, Wednesday, during which flags will be flown at half-mast.
The Ministry praised the security forces, describing them as having “steadfast determination” in confronting the challenges that threaten the country’s sovereignty.
Tassia is located in the Tillaberi region, near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, and this region witnesses frequent activity from armed groups linked to organizations such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS, which has raised anxiety and tension in the region for several years.
The United States announces the completion of the withdrawal of its forces from Niger in August