Niger's airspace closed on Sunday, which was imposed by a group of African countries for Nigerien military coup leaders to release power and reinstate the democratically-elected president. The military coup was launched in late July, with President Mohamed Bazoum seized by guards, national institutions shut down, and protesters taking to the streets.
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The coup leaders' actions were condemned by the United States, some Western nations, and a group of Western African countries, which threatened force. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) warned that if the military junta did not stand down, it could face possible military intervention.
The bloc imposed travel bans and asset freezes for military officials, their family members, and civilians who agreed to participate in institutions or governments established by the officials. France and the European Union cut off financial aid to Niger following the coup. On Sunday afternoon, thousands rallied in Niamey to show their support for the junta and voice their opposition against the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS.
The junta has warned on state television that any military intervention would be met with an immediate and unannounced response by Niger's defense and security forces. ECOWAS leaders met in Nigeria last week to organize a collective response to the coup and plan a potential military response, which the group has said is a last resort.