withdrawal

The recent joint summit between the Eastern African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) brought fresh hope for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The gathering resulted in the establishment of an expanded panel tasked with spearheading peace initiatives in a region fraught with turmoil, following Angola’s withdrawal as a mediator. This strategic adjustment is vital, considering the DRC’s ongoing struggles. The revised panel features an impressive lineup of former leaders,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In the bustling capital of Somalia, Mogadishu, a flurry of claims and counterclaims has recently drawn the attention of the international community. Amidst the hum of daily life and the persistent chatter of market vendors, the U.S. Embassy found itself in the eye of a media storm, staunchly refuting rumors of a mass evacuation of its diplomatic staff. It’s curious, isn't it, how quickly misinformation can take root, capturing minds with apprehensive narratives? The story begins with Dirir,…

A spokesperson for Hamas expressed a cautious hope in response to US President Donald Trump's recent comments suggesting a shift away from his prior proposal for the permanent displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. The spokesperson urged the President to steer clear of the perspectives held by the "extreme Zionist right." This statement comes on the heels of President Trump's assertion during a White House meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, where he stated, "Nobody is expelling any Palestinians from Gaza." This remark…

On a pivotal Friday, France ceremoniously transferred control of two military installations to Senegal. It was a move that marked the dawning of a new chapter in relations between these historically linked nations, illuminating the phased conclusion of French military presence within this vibrant West African state. "As per the joint commission's decision," declared the French embassy statement shared on its website, "the French authorities handed the facilities and residences located in the…

On a pivotal Wednesday in Abuja, Air Marshal Abubakar took center stage at the First Quarter Meeting to address Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and Commanders. With an earnestness that captured everyone's attention, he broached the pressing matter of security challenges following the recent withdrawal of several countries from the newly established Alliance of Sahel States (AES). This shift, according to the Air Chief, isn't just a procedural hiccup but a monumental disruption to…

The recent expulsion of French troops from Côte d'Ivoire signals a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of West Africa. This move follows a similar withdrawal from Chad earlier this year and mirrors actions taken by Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—countries that have exhibited a growing discontent with French military presence. Could this be the death knell for French influence in the Sahel region? To understand the implications of this trend, one must delve into the intricate tapestry of historical relations.…

The decision to initially prevent Nigerians with ECOWAS passports from entering Niger stems from the nation's recent withdrawal from the West African regional group known as ECOWAS. But why such a drastic move? It all circles back to the political tremors reverberating through the region. Niger's exit—occurring alongside fellow nations Mali and Burkina Faso—followed a trio of coups that placed military governments at their helm. Some attempts at negotiations fell flat, and eventually, their departure was solidified in…

The Liberian government finds itself grappling with a troubling fiscal landscape. Recent cancellations of key initiatives backed by USAID, the U.S. agency renowned for its global development efforts, have exacerbated an already precarious situation. With the current U.S. administration opting for a 90-day hiatus to reevaluate the agency’s initiatives, the ripple effects are being keenly felt in Liberia. Finance Minister Augustine Ngafua has been vocal about the ramifications of these funding cuts. He noted with palpable…

In recent developments, Lebanese leaders have reached out to both the United States and France, urging them to compel Israel to complete its withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Their characterization of Israel's presence in several key areas as an "occupation" underscores the gravity of the situation following the expiration of a ceasefire deadline. The United Nations has labeled the incomplete withdrawal as a breach of a Security Council resolution. While many displaced individuals are slowly returning to their homes in the…

In a bold proclamation, the Sahel nations have unveiled their exit strategy from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), set to take effect in 2024. The catalyst for this decision? A chorus of criticism aimed at ECOWAS for allegedly being puppeteered by former colonial powers—a sentiment that resonates deeply in regions still grappling with the legacies of colonialism. To counter this narrative, the military regimes of these countries have unified under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), announcing an…