The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a stark alert regarding regional security. Commission President Omar Touray recently briefed the United Nations Security Council on the escalating crisis. He warned that terrorism in West Africa has evolved into a threat affecting the very survival of the region.
Economic Warfare Tactics
Touray outlined a disturbing strategic shift by insurgent groups during the high-level counterterrorism meeting. Terrorists have moved beyond isolated attacks on civilians. Instead, they are actively waging an “economic war.”
Consequently, these groups are blockading vital fuel supplies. Furthermore, they are dismantling established trade routes between nations. This calculated strategy aims to cripple local economies. It presents a severe danger to both the Sahel and coastal states.
Mobilizing Forces Against Terrorism in West Africa
In response to this aggression, ECOWAS is operationalizing a robust defense plan. Touray detailed the deployment of the ECOWAS Standby Force to restore stability.
The operational roadmap includes:
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Initial Phase: The immediate deployment of a 1,650-strong counterterrorism mission.
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Expansion: A projected increase to 5,000 troops as further support is secured.
Additionally, the bloc is pursuing diplomatic avenues. Touray emphasized the need to rebuild trust with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These nations, currently under military rule, recently withdrew from the regional body.
International Leaders Call for Unity
Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, presided over the critical session. He characterized the violence not just as a regional issue, but as a global challenge. Therefore, he urged the international community to collaborate on solutions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed these sentiments. He expressed profound concern regarding the deteriorating situation in the Sahel. Guterres highlighted the urgent necessity for coordinated global action.
The violence has intensified steadily over the last decade. Extremists exploit porous borders to expand from northern Mali into neighboring territories. Moreover, the withdrawal of international forces, such as Operation Barkhane, has left a dangerous security vacuum. ECOWAS is now racing to fill this gap before the instability spreads further.
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