In a recent statement, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are "literally" living like hostages in the embassy. The embassy's occupants find themselves in an extremely restrictive and challenging situation due to the ongoing turmoil in the region. Macron's statement has underscored the gravity of the conditions faced by the diplomatic mission as they navigate the complexities of their role amidst heightened security concerns.

During his statement, President Emmanuel Macron conveyed that the French envoy, Sylvain Itte, continues to face the status of persona non grata within the conflict-stricken state of Niger.

Simultaneously, he made a pointed accusation against the junta alleging that they are actively obstructing the delivery of essential food supplies to the consulate. This obstruction has resulted in a distressing living situation for the diplomatic staff stationed at the consulate, who are enduring increasingly challenging conditions as a consequence of these actions.

Macron told reporters during a visit to Burgundy, "As we speak, we have an ambassador and diplomatic staff who are literally being held hostage in the French embassy."

"They are preventing food deliveries. He is eating military rations," he added.  Quizzed if his government was planning to bring Itte back home, Macron said: "I will do whatever we agree with President Bazoum because he is the legitimate authority and I speak with him every day."

Notably, the military leaders who staged a coup on July 26 and ousted President Mohamed Bazoum had issued an ultimatum to Sylvain Itte, Instructing him to depart the country promptly. Despite the expiry of the 48-hour deadline, the French government has steadfastly refused to comply with these demands and has declined to acknowledge the legitimacy of the military regime.

Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna stated that the ambassador remains actively engaged in his consulate role and will continue as long as required by his country. Colonna as reported by French media emphasized the ambassador's significant value due to his extensive contacts and team.

Macron has consistently refused to remove the French ambassador, a stance supported by the EU. The EU, like France, has declared its non-recognition of the authorities who took control in Niger, with EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali stating this position last month, describing the demand as "a provocation."

On July 26, President Bazoum was detained by his own guard, leading to the military junta taking control and appointing General Abdourahamane Tiani as the new leader. ECOWAS has attempted negotiations with the junta without success, and their decision to activate a standby force has raised concerns about potential escalation in the insurgency-plagued Sahel region.

Image source: Reuters