Burkina Faso and Niger have joined Mali in declaring their withdrawal from the G5 Sahel, an international force established to combat Islamist groups in the Sahel region.
All three nations, now under military rule following coups, have formed their defense alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) since September.
Despite the initial intent for the G5 force to consist of approximately 5,000 soldiers, Burkina Faso and Niger, like Mali, have expressed dissatisfaction with its effectiveness in securing the Sahel region.
The military-led governments of these countries released a statement criticizing the G5 force, alleging that it failed to enhance the security of the region.
They further argued that the anti-jihadist force compromised their aspirations for greater “independence and dignity,” accusing it of serving foreign interests, likely referring to France.
Tensions between these Sahel nations and their former colonial power, France, have escalated significantly.
The withdrawal of Burkina Faso and Niger poses a crucial question regarding the potential impact on the Islamist militant groups that have been gaining strength in the Sahel region.
However, as of now, no indication having military rulers in charge enhances the safety of the population against the growing threat posed by al-Qaeda and IS-linked fighters.
