Algeria Sends Soldiers to Niger

Algeria will deploy troops to Niger, marking the country's first overseas military deployment since 1973. The decision follows a visit by Niger's defense minister to Algiers, where the two nations discussed support against armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

The Algerian upper house of parliament voted 148 to 28 on Sunday to authorize the mission. The lower house subsequently backed the measure. This action invokes a 2020 constitutional provision that permits overseas military operations, shifting a long-standing policy against sending forces abroad.

Officials have not yet announced the specific timeline or the exact number of soldiers involved. Senator Belkacem Boulghiti told reporters after the vote that the troops are not going to wage war. Instead, he stated their purpose is to secure economic infrastructure.

The deployment is tied to Algeria's financial interests in the region. A planned gas pipeline will transport gas from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria. The soldiers are expected to guard energy facilities in northern Niger, located near the Libyan border. Sonatrach, Algeria's state energy company, also signed an agreement with Niger's petroleum ministry to explore for oil in the Kafra region. Reuters reported that two exploration wells in that area are estimated to hold 168 million and 100 million barrels.

The move occurs as the two neighbors repair relations after a diplomatic rift. In 2025, Niger recalled its ambassador to Algiers in solidarity with Mali after Algeria shot down a Malian drone. Tensions had risen earlier after Algeria condemned the 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and installed General Abdourahamane Tchiani.

Diplomatic ties have improved over the past year. General Tchiani visited Algeria in February 2026. In late August, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune sent fighter jets to Niger to help suppress a coup attempt. He also donated four military helicopters to the Nigerien government.