Geopolitical Reality: Algeria’s Central Role in Maghreb, Sahel Regions

BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- In the complex web of geopolitics, when will the Moroccan leadership grasp the lesson that Algeria stands as a pivotal nation in the Arab Maghreb and Sahel regions? The persistent refusal of Morocco, driven by stubbornness and defiance, to acknowledge Algeria’s leadership in the Maghreb is becoming increasingly evident. Recent conspiracies, including collaboration with the UAE and the Zionist entity, highlight Morocco’s attempts to undermine Algeria’s role in the Sahel region. This includes manipulating the military council in Mali to cancel Algeria’s peace and reconciliation agreement in the region.

Algeria’s entitlement to a leading role in both the Sahel and Maghreb regions is not arbitrary; it stems from a combination of political, geographical, historical, and societal factors. Unlike the Moroccan system, Algeria’s government is grounded in popular legitimacy, creating a unique model in the Arab and Maghreb world. This legitimacy has contributed to Algeria’s unparalleled political and security stability despite challenges in neighboring countries.

Geographically, Algeria holds a strategic position at the literal crossroads of the four cardinal directions, making it the geographical centerpiece and gravitational center of the Maghreb. No other nation shares this unique characteristic, making Algeria the convergence point for various regional influences. Additionally, Algeria possesses vast natural resources, further enhancing its geopolitical significance.

Historically, Algeria has been a cradle of civilizations and kingdoms, playing host to diverse cultures. The term “Maghreb,” utilized by the Moroccan regime to assert historical legitimacy, signifies a shared heritage among all nations in the Arab Maghreb, rather than a specific claim by Morocco to Algerian territories.

The risks associated with Morocco’s reliance on external agendas, notably the UAE and the Zionist entity, will inevitably lead the Sahel region into conflicts. The ill-fated collaboration with these entities has burdened Morocco economically and politically, exemplified by increased gas and oil prices and the redirection of humanitarian aid in the Red Sea crisis. Morocco’s misguided attempt to sideline Algeria and seek alternative energy sources from Spain and Nigeria showcases a lack of strategic foresight.

The Algerian people, in alignment with state institutions and particularly the presidency and the People’s National Army, have forged a robust governance system. Since gaining independence, Algeria has stood as a unique model in the Arab and Maghreb regions, ensuring stability and security, even amidst neighboring turmoil.

It is high time for the Moroccan regime to recognize that Algeria has no need for Morocco in any aspect. Algeria’s only request is that Morocco abandons its conspiracies and returns to cooperation, or that the Moroccan people awaken to the sinister plots of their regime, preventing them from becoming mere refugees within and outside Morocco. At that point, the truth will prevail, and the words “If only we had believed the warnings of our elder sister, Algeria” will resonate.