Niamey Airport Attack: The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) condemned the June 18 assault on Diori Hamani International Airport, saying it was meant to weaken Niger’s forces and backed by “foreign state sponsors,” after Niger reported 13 dead (11 soldiers, 2 civilians) and said 22 attackers were neutralized. Border Talks: Niger and Benin have started work to reopen their shared border after expert talks in Cotonou, with Niger’s Interior Ministry saying conditions for movement and future agreements were discussed on instructions from the two heads of state. Lakurawa Road Block (Niger State): Suspected Lakurawa terrorists blocked the Mokwa–New Bussa Road near Zurgurma in Mashegu LGA, disrupting travel and forcing detours until a joint security team pushed them into Ibbi Forest. Anti-LGBTQ Law in Niger: Niger has criminalised same-sex intimacy for the first time, with reports of a crackdown already underway and penalties up to 20 years. Sickle Cell Care: In Niger State, sickle cell patients say costs of medicines, tests, and admissions still block access to affordable care. Security & Hostages (Nigeria): Hope is rising for the release of 39 abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State as troops tighten surveillance around the forest hideout and terrorists reportedly shift demands toward ransom and lower-level releases.