In a significant escalation of tensions, Algeria announced on Thursday, September 26, that it will impose visa requirements on Moroccan nationals. The Algerian government accused Moroccan passport holders of engaging in criminal activities, including “Zionist espionage.”
This decision further deteriorates relations between the two North African neighbors. In a statement from Algeria’s official APS news agency, the government alleged that Morocco has undertaken actions that threaten Algeria’s stability. They claimed Morocco has allowed “Zionist espionage agents” to enter its territory and has facilitated various organized crimes, including drug and human trafficking, smuggling, and illegal immigration.
The announcement follows the recent arrest of seven individuals in Tlemcen, Algeria, four of whom are Moroccan, on charges of being part of a spy ring. Additionally, Algeria has accused Morocco of supporting the Berber separatist movement, MAK, in Algeria.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were severed in August 2021 after Morocco normalized relations with Israel following U.S. recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara. This longstanding conflict has been a source of tension, particularly regarding the disputed territory largely controlled by Morocco but backed by Algeria’s Polisario Front, which advocates for its independence.
Previously, citizens of both nations enjoyed visa-free travel, but currently, there are no direct flights between Algeria and Morocco. While Algeria has expressed its commitment to maintaining ties with the “brotherly” Moroccan people, it holds Rabat’s authorities responsible for the deteriorating diplomatic situation.
As of now, Morocco has not yet responded to Algeria’s latest announcement.
