Benin Coup Fails, Leader On Run, Hostages' Fate Unknown

• A failed coup attempt occurred in Benin, led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri and the "Committee for Refoundation," who announced the removal of President Patrice Talon.
• The coup was foiled by Benin's military, supported by Nigerian forces; the leader's whereabouts and the fate of hostages remain unknown.
• President Talon condemned the "senseless adventure," vowing to punish mutineers and ensure hostage safety, without disclosing casualty or hostage numbers.
• The attempted takeover was condemned by the UN, Nigeria, and ECOWAS, with ECOWAS deploying a standby force to preserve democracy.
• This incident is the latest in a series of coups that have destabilized West Africa since 2020.

Why It Matters: It shows the ongoing threat to democracy and stability in West Africa.