Algeria has announced that Moroccan nationals will now require visas to enter its territory, a move linked to rising accusations against Morocco of illegal activities, including espionage and trafficking, that threaten Algeria’s national security. The announcement signals a further deterioration in relations between the two North African countries.
In a statement released through state media, Algerian authorities alleged that individuals using Moroccan passports had engaged in espionage operations on behalf of foreign interests, as well as drug and human trafficking within its borders. These activities, Algeria claims, have been part of a broader campaign by Morocco that endangers Algerian stability.
This latest diplomatic move follows years of strained relations between the two countries. Algeria formally cut diplomatic ties with Morocco in August 2021, citing a pattern of “hostile actions” from its neighbor, following Morocco’s decision to normalize ties with Israel. The border between the two countries has remained closed since 1994.
On September 1, just ahead of Algeria’s presidential election season, authorities in Tlemcen, a border city near Morocco, arrested several individuals, including four Moroccans, accusing them of being involved in a foreign spy network.
Despite the rising tensions, Algeria expressed a continued commitment to the Moroccan people, stating it sees them as “brothers,” while laying the blame for the current diplomatic fallout solely on the Moroccan government.
Algeria’s move to tighten border controls reflects deepening distrust and unresolved political tensions in the region, with no immediate signs of reconciliation on the horizon.
