The United States expressed serious concern over escalating terrorist threats and violence in West Africa during a United Nations Security Council briefing on peace consolidation in the region.
Addressing the council, the US representative highlighted the paralysis of Mali caused by Al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorists, who have imposed a fuel blockade and are reportedly aiming to take control of the country. While acknowledging the efforts of Malian armed forces against terrorist organizations, including ISIS-Sahel, the United States emphasized that the security situation is rapidly deteriorating.
The US also criticized the UN’s 2023 veto of sanctions against Mali, arguing that it removed key tools for promoting accountability and stability, resulting in a surge of violence, shrinking space for dialogue, and growing risks for civilians. The threat of terrorism, the representative warned, is spreading southward, citing attacks in Benin and Togo.
Particular concern was expressed regarding Nigeria, where various ethnic militias and terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa have targeted Christian communities. The US condemned the ongoing attacks, including the recent kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls and the murder of a school official in Kebbi State.
“Churches are burning. Villages are being razed. Thousands are killed,” the representative said, calling the violence “tragic and unacceptable.”
The United States urged the Nigerian government to enhance security, respond to early warnings, end impunity, and address the underlying drivers of violence. The remarks also called for stronger African leadership and a coordinated regional response to counter these growing threats.
“The United States will continue to work with regional partners to counter these common threats,” the representative concluded.