Morocco and Algeria: A Fundamental Difference Between a Regional Power That Adheres to International Legitimacy and Seeks Stability and an Expansionist Regime That Practices Extortion and Deception
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS– In a complex geopolitical landscape where stability and cooperation are paramount, Morocco and Algeria stand at opposite ends of the spectrum. While Algeria pursues its ambitions as a regional power through diplomatic expertise and adherence to international norms, Morocco’s expansionist regime resorts to dubious tactics, violating resolutions and engaging in alarming alliances. The fundamental difference between these neighboring nations has far-reaching consequences for their regions and beyond.
Algeria, drawing from its historical struggle against colonialism and bolstered by its strategic capabilities, has consistently aspired to become a regional power. The country understands the importance of fostering stable relationships and constructive partnerships with major global players in both the East and the West. This approach allows Algeria to act as a mediator in crises, facilitate consensus, and resolve conflicts. Driven by the principles of international legitimacy and good neighborliness, Algeria’s commitment to security and stability extends not only to its immediate surroundings but also to the global stage.
To realize this vision, Algeria has made significant contributions to peace and development in Africa. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s decision to finance one billion dollars’ worth of development projects on the continent through the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development showcases the nation’s dedication to effective development as the key to lasting peace and security in Africa. This initiative not only benefits Africa but also has positive ramifications for Europe, mitigating integration and security challenges stemming from migration waves.
In contrast, Morocco, led by the Makhzen regime, has clung to its expansionist ambitions, resorting to questionable means to control its geographical surroundings. Violating resolutions and principles of international legitimacy, Morocco’s actions in desert lands, seeking annexation and resource exploitation, have marginalized and excluded local populations, denying them the right to self-determination and liberation from Makhzen colonialism’s grip.
Moroccan Aggression Exposed
Moreover, Morocco’s recent entanglement with the Zionist entity has raised serious concerns. The regime’s readiness to trade the Palestinian cause for support and benefits from certain countries has tarnished its commitment to the Arab and Islamic nations. Its involvement with the conservative Jewish lobby in the United States and former President Donald Trump to normalize relations with the Zionist entityhas deepened the divide in the region.
Instead of diplomacy and cooperation, Morocco has turned to blackmail as a mechanism to manage its foreign policy, particularly concerning Algeria. Threatening Algeria’s interests and national security due to its alliance with the Zionist entity, Morocco has resorted to provocative language, drawing attention to the ominous security cooperation between the two sides. The agreements have allowed Morocco access to advanced Zionist security equipment and operational planning, raising alarms for Algeria and the region.
The contrasting approaches of Morocco and Algeria illustrate the importance of adhering to international legitimacy and cooperation for regional stability. While Algeria has chosen the path of mediation, partnership, and genuine commitment to development, Morocco’s expansionist agenda, reliance on deception, and disregard for international norms pose serious challenges to the region’s peace and security.
In recent times, has resorted to devious means to undermine its neighbor’s social structure and security. Reports confirm that the Moroccan regime has deployed advanced Zionist military technology to target Algerian interests, an alarming development that warrants attention from the international community.
The use of poisonous substances and covert drug operations to destabilize Algerian society is only the beginning of a pattern of aggression. The notorious Pegasus program’s revelations highlighted that Morocco’ surveillance activities were not limited to Algeria but extended to other European countries, including Spain. The scandal exposed Morocco’s attempts to manipulate European leaders and influence political decisions, even resorting to illicit tactics to advance its interests, as seen in the “Maroc Gate” case involving the European Parliament.
One of the most concerning aspects of this ongoing situation is Morocco’s exploitation of the migration crisis to exert pressure on Spain and the European Union. In exchange for financial support to combat immigration, Morocco has coerced the EU into turning a blind eye to its human rights violations, the suppression of freedom of expression, and its mistreatment of activists, particularly the Sahrawi community.
However, the hostility between Morocco and Algeria has also escalated militarily, with the incidents involving the Moroccan Air Force’s use of advanced drone technology to target Algerian commercial trucks. This act of aggression resulted in the tragic loss of three Algerian lives while they were traveling between Nouakchott and Ouargla. Additionally, a separate attack on merchants in Ain Ben Tili, Mauritania’s far north, further escalated the situation, leaving several individuals wounded. Such actions not only endanger innocent lives but also exacerbate regional instability and threaten peaceful coexistence.
At the core of this crisis lies Morocco’s expansionist mindset, with claims on Algerian territory in what it calls the “Eastern Desert.” This deep-rooted belief and aggressive orientation against Algeria have prompted the Algerian authorities to sever diplomatic ties, citing the lack of mutual respect and good neighborliness in their relations with Morocco.
Algeria has always aimed for harmonious relations with its neighbors, recognizing the shared history, culture, and destiny between the peoples of the Maghreb. Nevertheless, the recent aggression from Morocco has reaffirmed the Algerian government’s decision to prioritize the sovereignty and security of its nation above all else.
As the situation continues to evolve, the people of Algeria remain committed to the legacy of their liberation revolution, striving to build an Arab Maghreb united by common goals and shared aspirations for a prosperous future. However, the utilization of advanced Zionist military technology in the hostilities against Algeria by Morocco along with other serious overruns are a concerning and alarming development that calls for immediate attention.
