Algeria’s Morocco Fixation: A Royal Cousin’s Perspective on Regional Tensions
Prince Moulay Hicham of Morocco, cousin to King Mohammed VI, recently offered candid insights into the relations-with-sahel-countries/” title=”Algeria Uses Sonatrach to Mend Ties with Sahel Countries Through Economic Incentives”>strained relationship between Morocco and Algeria, highlighting the Algerian leadership’s preoccupation – bordering on obsession – with its neighbor. In an interview with French radio station “Radio Sud,” he characterized the current political climate as the most tense in decades, extending beyond the bilateral relationship to involve France in a complex, precarious triangle.
Hicham, author of “Islam and Democracy” and a visiting professor at the University of California, Berkeley, stressed the urgency of de-escalation. ”The situation is extremely tense, even dangerous,” he stated, emphasizing the potential for unintended incidents. The Maghreb region, encompassing both Morocco and Algeria, has a long history of volatile relations, often exacerbated by border disputes and historical grievances. The current tension, fueled by political posturing and internal pressures within both countries, risks escalating into conflict. Recent developments, such as the disputed Western Sahara territory (a source of ongoing contention between Morocco and the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria), further complicate the situation. [Link to a reputable news source discussing the Western Sahara conflict, e.g., Al Jazeera, BBC, Reuters]
The prince welcomed France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara, framing it within the broader context of decolonization and acknowledging historical realities. However, he also acknowledged the difficult position this places France in, describing it as a challenge “to remain equidistant between two enemy brothers.” This delicate balancing act, he suggested, is as much a domestic French issue as it is a foreign policy one, reflecting the complexities of France’s historical ties to both nations. [Link to an article discussing France’s relations with Morocco and Algeria]
While acknowledging the tense political climate, Hicham emphasized the warm relationship between the Moroccan and Algerian people. “Between Moroccans and Algerians, there is no problem,” he asserted. He contrasted this with what he perceives as the Algerian leadership’s unhealthy fixation on Morocco, going beyond mere concern to what he termed an “obsession.” This preoccupation, he argued, is partly driven by internal Algerian politics, where focusing on an external ”enemy” can serve as a distraction from domestic issues. This tactic, unfortunately common in international relations, can exacerbate existing tensions and hinder meaningful dialogue. [Link to an article or study discussing the use of external enemies in domestic politics]
Speaking personally, not as an official representative of the Moroccan government, Hicham expressed his affection for the Algerian people, calling them “brothers.” He underscored the strong sense of shared Maghreb identity that transcends political divisions. This sentiment, echoed by many citizens on both sides of the border, offers a glimmer of hope for future reconciliation. However, bridging the divide between the two governments requires addressing the underlying political and historical issues fueling the current tension. This includes open communication, a commitment to de-escalation, and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, potentially with the assistance of international mediators.
Keywords: Morocco, Algeria, France, Maghreb, Western Sahara, Moulay Hicham, King Mohammed VI, regional tensions, political obsession, international relations, decolonization, border disputes, domestic politics.
