Algerian Defense Ministry’s Press Release Strikes a Defiant Blow Against the Makhzen Regime and Its Propaganda Machinery
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The MDN’s press release, which was issued in response to the incident involving three jet-skis trespassing into Algerian territorial waters on August 29, 2023, and made public on September 3, had a profound impact. It not only informed the international community about the blatant violation of Algeria’s maritime boundaries but also effectively unveiled the false claims and misinformation spread by the Makhzen regime and its affiliated propaganda networks, including those with Zionist and neocolonial ties.
In stark contrast to the Makhzen regime’s approach, Algeria promptly addressed the violation of its maritime territory by unidentified individuals who disregarded warnings from the Algerian naval forces. This incident occurred in a military zone along the border with a nation that has consistently displayed hostility toward Algeria. It is worth noting that Morocco, through its government spokesperson, asserted that the matter was under Moroccan jurisdiction. However, questions arise about entrusting the case to the courts without a thorough investigation. Furthermore, one might legitimately question the conduct of Moroccan authorities, who have yet to request the return of the body in accordance with customary consular assistance procedures observed in similar cases in many countries.
To dismantle the false narratives propagated by the Makhzen regime’s propaganda machine on social media, Algeria 54 conducted an insightful interview with Mokhtar Mediouni, an expert in security and geopolitical matters. According to Mediouni, the border between Algeria and Morocco has remained closed for decades, demanding compliance from all parties. “The Algerian Coast Guards made every effort to prevent such an incident, which, in my view, should not have garnered much attention,” emphasized Algerie 54’s interviewee.
Furthermore, it is imperative to recognize that today, widespread awareness exists regarding the closed border, obligating all stakeholders to shoulder their responsibilities. This awareness is particularly crucial given that our nation is contending with a relentless campaign led by the Makhzen regime. This campaign extends beyond mere hostile propaganda to include illicit activities such as arms trafficking, drug trade, and support for terrorism networks.
In essence, Mokhtar Mediouni contends that the arguments presented by the Makhzen regime lack coherence and are riddled with inconsistencies and contradictions. He also asserts that the ANP elements will consistently exhibit professionalism and experience, refraining from responding to provocations while fiercely safeguarding the country’s territorial sovereignty.
Regarding humanitarian conduct, the Algerian expert highlights the example of Moroccan sailors who received care after their boat capsized due to adverse weather conditions at Beni Saf hospital several years ago. Mediouni argues that Algeria sets an unmatched standard in terms of neighborly respect and assistance to those in need, without implying any hostile intentions toward its neighbors.
Regarding media coverage from the mainstream Doxa of the Paradise Lost establishment, the interviewee revisits the tragic killing of young Nehal in France by French police, noting that the author was rewarded with a substantial sum of money.
The sensationalism surrounding the jetskiers incident was intended to divert attention from the Commander of the Faithful’ setbacks in Gabon, where he had to flee to France. There were reports that the new Gabonese authorities had banned four Moroccan planes from leaving Libreville airport and arrested the Moroccan ambassador with significant amounts of money and gold. This incident is expected to gain prominence amid the wave of revolutions in some African countries opposing Françafrique and expressing anti-Moroccan sentiments, viewing Morocco as a puppet of neocolonial forces. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that French companies with ties to the Makhzen control a substantial portion, approximately 45%, of the wealth of this resource-rich country, even as its people struggle with poverty.
The strategy of using disinformation
In response to Algeria’s official statement regarding the border situation, the Makhzen propaganda machine took a step further by attempting to implicate the United Kingdom. They claimed that the UK’s Foreign Office had advised its citizens to avoid the Morocco-Algeria border area. However, this information cannot be verified on the official website of the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs; instead, it is propagated through Makhzen-affiliated networks like Maghreb Intelligence and the Zionist entity’s I24. This tactic is a well-established approach characterized by the spread of falsehoods and disinformation.
