Benin Foils Coup Attempt; Soldiers Briefly Seize State TV

• Benin's government thwarted a coup attempt after soldiers appeared on national TV claiming to remove President Patrice Talon.
• Gunfire was reported near the president's residence; authorities confirmed Talon was safe and forces regained control.
• A group named the "Military Committee for Refoundation" announced the takeover and named Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri as its leader.
• The Interior Minister confirmed the mutiny failed, stating plotters only managed to take control of state TV.
• The coup attempt occurred ahead of Benin's 2026 presidential election, amidst concerns over democratic freedoms and regional instability.

Why It Matters: Benin's failed coup highlights regional instability and democratic challenges.