Explosions, Heavy Gunfire Rock Niamey Airport Overnight; Attack Feared

• Loud explosions and heavy gunfire were reported near Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, Niger's capital, overnight into Thursday morning.
• The incident, lasting about two hours from midnight, sparked fears of an attack by armed groups in the conflict-hit country.
• Videos from the scene showed blasts and a glowing sky, though AP could not independently verify them or confirm casualties/damage.
• A resident claimed gunmen attacked the airport but were repelled by soldiers; this account also remains unverified.
• Calm returned by Thursday morning with heavy security around the airport; Niger's military junta has not commented on the incident.

Why It Matters: Niamey's main airport experienced overnight explosions and gunfire, raising concerns about armed group activity.