Chad's Security Forces Thwart Palace Attack

An armed attack on Chad's presidential palace in N'Djamena on Wednesday resulted in at least 19 deaths, including 18 assailants and one security personnel. The assault involved a group of 24 attackers, who were reportedly overpowered by security forces shortly after initiating the attack. Chad's Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, initially speculated that the attackers might be affiliated with Boko Haram, but later dismissed this notion, suggesting they were likely not terrorists and described them as 'drunken' criminals. President Mahamat Idriss Deby was present during the incident, which comes amidst heightened security tensions following the termination of military agreements with France. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm, assuring them that the situation is under control and that there is currently no threat to governmental stability. The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in Chad, particularly against a backdrop of political unrest and military rule since Deby's ascension in 2021.