Expressing sympathy with the families of the victims and declaring solidarity with the people and government of Niger, Baqaei emphasized Iran's support for the Nigerien government's efforts to protect the country's independence and national sovereignty, maintain security and stability, and advance its national development programs.
His statement came after a group of soldiers in Niger rebelled against officers at a key military base and fired at sensitive sites in the capital, Niamey, in an apparent collective mutiny.
The incident marked the third time the city – and specifically the main airport – has experienced major unrest this year, underscoring persistent insecurity under Niger’s military-led government that seized power in a coup in 2023 and pledged to restore order.