Post by The Soufan Center (TSC)

🚨 NEW ISSUE BRIEF 🚨   When militants attacked #Niamey's international airport in January, it wasn't just another terrorist attack. It was a warning.   The operation revealed something more concerning: the Islamic State's affiliate in the #Sahel is becoming more capable, more organized, and increasingly able to carry out sophisticated attacks against high-value targets.   Our latest report explores how the group has expanded its territorial footprint, strengthened ties with other #ISIS affiliates, and emerged as a growing force in one of the world's most volatile regions.   As extremist groups gain territory and freedom of movement, they become harder to contain – and the instability they create rarely stays confined to one region.   📖 Read "The Islamic State's Growing Footprint in the Sahel" by Wassim NASR: https://lnkd.in/gT8wgU3G   #Extremism #Geopolitics #Africa