In a brazen assault on Chad’s political heart, an attack targeting the presidential palace on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of 18 assailants, while six were taken into custody, according to state media reports.

The incident also claimed the life of a soldier, with three others sustaining injuries.

The attack unfolded while President Mahamat Deby Itno was inside the palace, yet authorities promptly asserted that the situation was swiftly controlled.

In a live broadcast from inside the seemingly calm palace, Foreign Affairs Minister Abderaman Koulamallah assured, 'The situation is completely under control.

There is no fear.'

The assault coincided with a visit by China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who had earlier conveyed congratulations to President Deby Itno for re-establishing constitutional order.

Despite such gestures, Chad remains mired in political uncertainty following recent parliamentary elections.

Held about a week before the attack, these elections were intended as steps toward restoring democracy after years of unrest.

However, the main opposition party boycotted the polls, casting doubt on their legitimacy.

As election results remain pending, analysts anticipate that the process could further entrench Deby Itno's hold on power.

Mahamat Deby Itno ascended to leadership in 2021 following the death of his father, Idriss Deby Itno, who was killed during a rebel confrontation after ruling the country for over three decades.

The younger Deby, taking the reins as a military leader, was declared the winner of a presidential vote last year.

However, international observers criticized the election as lacking credibility.

With the recent attack underscoring the deep political rifts and security challenges in Chad, the nation faces an uncertain path forward as it grapples with both internal and external pressures.