Chad investigates attack on presidential compound that left 18 dead

Chad’s government has launched an investigation after a group of 24 armed assailants attempted to storm the presidential compound in N’Djamena on Wednesday night, according to Reuters. The attackers, described as "ill-intentioned individuals" by the public prosecutor, were repelled by security forces, leaving 18 dead and six wounded.

Gunfire was heard near the presidential palace as soldiers secured the area. The government later announced the situation was under control, downplaying the threat as an isolated incident.

The attack follows Chad’s recent decision to end its defence pact with France, a move that weakens its position as a key Western ally in combating Islamist insurgencies in the Sahel. The region remains a hotbed of instability, with Islamist groups like Boko Haram and affiliates of Islamic State and al-Qaeda threatening security.

Authorities have vowed to identify the attack’s instigators, but confusion persists about the assailants' motives and affiliations.