Algeria approves first foreign military deployment since 1973 to protect Niger energy infrastructure

Algeria has decided to send troops to Niger in what represents its first foreign military deployment since 1973, when it supported Egypt during the Arab-Israeli war. The deployment follows a request from Niger's defence minister, as the country faces pressure from armed groups, some affiliated with al-Qaeda or the Islamic State group.

On 25 October, Algeria's upper house of parliament held an emergency session to vote on the proposed deployment. The measure passed with 148 senators voting in favour out of 174 total, and was subsequently approved by the lower house as well. Although the exact timing and number of troops have not been announced, the forces are expected to be stationed in northern Niger near the Libyan border to protect energy infrastructure.

This deployment marks a significant change in Algeria's foreign policy. The country has traditionally avoided sending military forces abroad, but a constitutional provision from 2020 now permits such overseas operations. Senator Belkacem Boulghiti explained after the vote: "We are not sending our soldiers to wage war in Niger, but for a mission to secure economic infrastructure." The decision comes as Algeria and Niger have repaired their diplomatic relationship following a 2025 rift. The move also reflects Algeria's economic interests in the region, as the state energy company Sonatrach has signed an agreement with Niger's petroleum ministry to conduct oil exploration in the Kafra region and to build a pipeline that would transport Nigerien gas to Algeria.