Algeria Cuts Diplomatic Ties With UAE Amid Regional Tensions

Algeria announced on Thursday that it is severing diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates, citing months of political tension and the exhaustion of all efforts to maintain bilateral ties. The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Abu Dhabi, despite warnings, continued what it described as "provocative or hostile actions," deeming the developments beyond what can be tolerated between two sovereign nations. The UAE ambassador was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and officially informed of the decision, given 48 hours to leave the country.

The rift stems from diverging stances on issues in North Africa and the Sahel region. Algeria has accused the UAE of interfering in its affairs and supporting regional actors, particularly noting Abu Dhabi's close ties with Morocco, a key point of contention due to the ongoing Western Sahara dispute. The two nations also differ on approaches to Libya, Mali, and Sudan. Furthermore, the growing relationship between the UAE and Israel has been an additional source of tension in Algerian discourse.

Relations had already deteriorated in February when Algeria moved to cancel an air transport services agreement with the UAE. This diplomatic break follows a series of mutual accusations and warnings, occurring as Algeria and Abu Dhabi compete for influence in several regional matters. Algeria maintains that its decision was made after diplomatic channels were exhausted, while the UAE has not yet issued an official statement regarding the severance of ties.