Following the military coup in Niger two days ago, a transitional government has been formed under the leadership of the coup’s orchestrator, General Omar Tchiani. Tchiani, a close ally of former President Mahamadou Issoufou, quashed a coup attempt following the 2021 elections. The current president, Mohamed Bazoum, was detained, and the constitution was declared null and void with all national institutions suspended and borders closed. This marks the fourth coup in Niger since its independence in 1960.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR