In a recent statement, Dr. Hyacinthe Wendlarima Ouédraogo sought to clarify his position on what he describes as “state terrorism,” stressing the need for nuance and caution in interpreting the term. According to him, criticizing what he considers the state terrorism of France or the United States should not be understood as hostility toward the French or American people, nor as opposition to Christianity, the dominant religion in those nations.

He extended the same reasoning to Middle Eastern countries, arguing that denouncing what he calls the state terrorism of Saudi Arabia or other regional powers should not be equated with hostility toward Islam or the Saudi population. In his view, ordinary people across the world generally share common interests, while the real divisions stem from ruling elites and geopolitical agendas rather than from populations themselves.

To support his argument, Ouédraogo referenced former Burkinabè President Thomas Sankara, recalling his assertion that European and African masses are not natural enemies, but are instead subjected to exploitation by the same dominant forces. He also cited remarks made in 2024 by Ibrahim Traoré during diplomatic tensions with Côte d’Ivoire, when the Burkinabè leader declared that Burkina Faso held no hostility toward the Ivorian people, but rather toward those governing the country.

According to Ouédraogo, this distinction reflects the broader political reality behind tensions between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and certain foreign governments. He argued that the AES is engaged in a struggle against international terrorism and against Western and Middle Eastern states allegedly involved, directly or indirectly, in financing such networks. However, he insisted that this confrontation should not be interpreted as a war against any religion, religious community, or people, whether French, American, or Saudi.

The academic warned that the issue is particularly sensitive and could easily be manipulated by actors seeking to exploit religious divisions. In his view, opponents of the AES may attempt to fuel hatred against certain faiths in order to create instability and social fragmentation after failing to weaken the alliance through political or strategic means. He described such tactics as part of a broader “divide and rule” strategy aimed at provoking internal conflict.

Ouédraogo concluded by calling for vigilance, national unity, and social cohesion within AES member states, arguing that solidarity would be essential in confronting what he described as a difficult struggle against imperialism and state terrorism. He maintained that internal divisions and sectarian disputes would only weaken the region at a critical moment.

Dr. Hyacinthe Wendlarima Ouédraogo is a writer, specialist in African history and civilizations, and university researcher.