The tensions between Algeria and Morocco are unprecedented, and it is unlikely that relations between the two countries will return to what they were before.
The roots of these tensions go back to the issue of Western Sahara, which was occupied by Morocco in 1975. Algeria has supported the Polisario Front, a Sahrawi national liberation movement, since then.
In 2021, Algeria cut off diplomatic relations with Morocco and imposed a trade embargo on the kingdom. This led to an escalation of tensions between the two countries and made it difficult to resume relations between them.
There are a number of reasons why it is unlikely that relations between Algeria and Morocco will return to what they were before. First, there has been no progress on the issue of Western Sahara. The Polisario Front still demands the independence of Western Sahara, while Morocco insists that Western Sahara is part of its territory.
Second, there are deep differences in the interests of the two countries. Algeria sees Morocco as seeking to dominate the region, while Morocco sees Algeria as supporting terrorism.
Third, there is a media war between the two countries, in which the two states exchange accusations and incitement.
These are some of the reasons why it is unlikely that relations between Algeria and Morocco will return to what they were before. The tensions between the two countries are unprecedented and are likely to continue in the foreseeable future.
Here are some additional details about each of these reasons:
- Issue of Western Sahara: The issue of Western Sahara is a matter of regional conflict that has been going on for more than 40 years. The Polisario Front, a Sahrawi national liberation movement, demands the independence of Western Sahara, while Morocco insists that Western Sahara is part of its territory. All international peace initiatives have failed to resolve this issue.
- Deep differences in interests: Algeria sees Morocco as seeking to dominate the region, while Morocco sees Algeria as supporting terrorism. These differences in interests make it difficult for the two countries to reach an understanding.
- Media war: Algeria and Morocco exchange accusations and incitement through the media. This media war increases tensions between the two countries and makes it difficult for them to reach a solution.
In conclusion, the tensions between Algeria and Morocco are unprecedented and it is unlikely that relations between the two countries will return to what they were before. These tensions have a negative impact on the region and it is important to make efforts to resolve them.
Here are some additional details about the situation between Algeria and Morocco:
- In August 2021, Algeria cut off diplomatic relations with Morocco.
- In September 2021, Morocco imposed a trade embargo on Algeria.
- The two countries have been exchanging accusations and incitement through the media.
- The situation has had a negative impact on the region, including on trade and security.
It is important to note that there are a number of factors that could contribute to a de-escalation of tensions between Algeria and Morocco. These include:
- Progress on the issue of Western Sahara: If a solution is found to the issue of Western Sahara, it would be a major step towards de-escalation.
- Improved relations between Algeria and Morocco: If the two countries can improve their relations, it would make it easier to resolve other issues.
- International intervention: The international community could play a role in de-escalating tensions between Algeria and Morocco.
