BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS– In a recent turn of events, Algeria’s heartfelt offer of humanitarian aid to Morocco following a devastating earthquake has revealed the stark contrast between genuine goodwill and political maneuvering. The Moroccan authorities’ refusal to accept this compassionate gesture has laid bare the true nature of the feudal Makhzen regime, casting doubt on its commitment to its own people in a time of crisis.
Algeria, with a rich history of promoting authentic values of good neighborliness, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to solidarity with the Moroccan people, who share both joy and suffering with their Algerian counterparts. This offer of assistance was extended as an expression of empathy, in stark contrast to the actions of a regime that has chosen to forge alliances with external forces rather than embrace regional unity.
The purported outstretched hand of King Mohammed VI, declared on two occasions, now appears to be nothing more than a facade, a strategic ploy designed to deceive both his own people and the international community. Instead of offering genuine support to the victims of the earthquake, the regime seems to prioritize political posturing over the welfare of its citizens.
Algeria, a nation deeply rooted in the principles of sovereignty and self-reliance, has proven that its extended hand to the Moroccan people is not a matter of political or diplomatic calculation. At a critical moment when the Commander of the Faithful was notably absent for several hours following the earthquake, Algeria swiftly extended its condolences to the Moroccan people and expressed its profound sympathy for the victims’ families. This compassionate gesture, which King Mohammed VI failed to replicate, highlights a stark contrast in leadership.
Moreover, while Algeria declared its solidarity by offering condolences, Morocco’s response fell short. The three days of mourning declared by the Moroccan monarch seemed hollow, as he omitted offering his condolences to the grieving families and failed to designate the earthquake-affected areas as disaster zones, which could have expedited critical relief efforts.
This recent disaster, while undeniably painful, serves as a powerful testament to Algeria’s enduring commitment to the values of good neighborliness and human solidarity. In contrast, the Makhzen regime continues to pursue a policy of aggression and insularity, choosing to bury its head in the sand rather than extend a helping hand to its neighbors.
In the face of this tragedy, Algeria’s true outstretched hand has shone as a beacon of hope and compassion, highlighting the stark contrast between genuine humanitarianism and political opportunism. As the world watches, it is a reminder that the principles upon which Algeria was founded remain steadfast, even in the face of adversity.
