The United States has expressed its gratitude for the proactive approach of the West African regional bloc ECOWAS in pursuing all possible avenues for achieving a peaceful resolution to the coup in Niger. ECOWAS recently sanctioned the establishment of a "standby" military force in response to the situation.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirmed his alignment with ECOWAS leadership in their call for the restoration of constitutional order in Niger following the military coup on July 26th, which led to the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum.

In an official statement, Blinken asserted that the US would hold the Niger junta responsible for the security and well-being of Mr. Bazoum, his family, and the individuals from his government who have been detained.

Both the US and the United Nations had previously expressed concerns about the health and safety of the deposed president, who has been held under house arrest for more than two weeks.

Despite a Sunday deadline for the junta to reinstate President Bazoum or face potential military intervention, the military leaders chose a different course of action. They have formed a new cabinet to govern the nation, disregarding the ultimatum put forth by ECOWAS.