Niger's newly installed military leaders have rescinded the French ambassador's diplomatic immunity and directed the police to expel him.

In a letter dated Tuesday, seen by AFP on Thursday, the junta stated that the ambassador is no longer entitled to the privileges and immunities associated with his diplomatic status at the French embassy.

Additionally, the ambassador's diplomatic credentials, visas, and those of his family members have been invalidated. The police have received instructions to proceed with his expulsion. This action comes after a coup on July 26 in Niger, which removed President Mohamed Bazoum, a close French ally.

Relations between Niger and France deteriorated as Paris supported Bazoum and refused to acknowledge the new rulers. As tensions escalated, French envoy Sylvain Itte was given 48 hours to leave the country, a demand France rejected, asserting the lack of legal authority for such an order.

French President Emmanuel Macron praised Itte for his continued service. In response, French military forces have signaled readiness to counter any increase in tension that might jeopardize French diplomatic and military facilities in Niger.

Measures have been implemented to safeguard these premises, according to French military spokesman Colonel Pierre Gaudilliere.