Algeria Expels Moroccan Diplomat Amid Rising Tensions with Rabat
Algiers declares Deputy Consul persona non grata in a surprise move that underscores deepening rifts over Western Sahara and regional alliances.
Watan-In an unprecedented diplomatic move, Algeria has declared the Moroccan Deputy Consul in Oran, Mohamed Saifani, persona non grata, ordering him to leave the country within 48 hours amid escalating political tensions between Algeria and Morocco.
This sudden decision has reignited the spotlight on the growing tensions between the two neighboring countries, which reached a peak when diplomatic relations were officially severed in August 2021.
The statement issued by the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not detail the “suspicious behavior” allegedly committed by Saifani but noted that his actions were “inconsistent with diplomatic norms and Algerian laws.” The Moroccan Consulate’s acting head in Oran, Khalid Cheihani, was summoned and officially informed of the expulsion.
Diplomatic Rift Deepens Between Algeria and Morocco Over Sahara Dispute
This escalation comes amid ongoing diplomatic deadlock between Algiers and Rabat, fueled by several contentious issues—foremost among them, the Western Sahara dispute. Morocco insists on a broad autonomy plan under its sovereignty, while Algeria supports the Polisario Front’s demand for a referendum on self-determination.
The Algerian decision also reflects rising tensions with France, a historical ally of Morocco, adding further complexity to the regional landscape. The timing of the expulsion raises questions about whether intelligence findings or diplomatic violations prompted Algeria to act with such speed and firmness, especially as it refrained from disclosing details.
Observers see this incident as potentially another chapter in the series of diplomatic confrontations between the two nations—and possibly a prelude to further escalation over the Western Sahara issue or other undisclosed security matters. While Rabat has maintained official silence thus far, analysts suggest that Morocco’s response may be cautious in order to avoid a prolonged diplomatic rupture.
Are we on the brink of a new crisis between Algeria and Morocco? Does the expulsion carry deeper implications beyond an individual diplomatic act? The situation remains open to increasingly tense scenarios.
