What You Need to Know
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has denied allegations of Algeria’s interference in Tunisia’s internal affairs. He warned against attempts to create political discord between the two nations, emphasizing mutual respect and the importance of their security relationship. His remarks come amid opposition claims regarding a military agreement between Algeria and Tunisia.
Africa. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune warned on Tuesday against what he described as “attempts to create political discord” between Algeria and Tunisia, following a media and political campaign by opposing parties in Tunisia against the military agreement signed between the two countries.
In a speech delivered before Parliament, President Tebboune stated, “There are attempts to sow the seeds of discord and division between Algeria and Tunisia, undermining relations between the two countries,” stressing that Algeria “has never interfered in Tunisia’s internal affairs, and mutual respect governs our relationship.” These statements were a direct political response to accusations from Tunisian opposition parties and media reports discussing Algeria’s role in Tunisia’s internal affairs, claiming Algeria supports President Kais Saied’s regime.
In this context, Tebboune emphasized the close security ties between the two nations, stating, “Algeria’s security is an extension of Tunisia’s security, and Tunisia’s security is an extension of Algeria’s security.” He added, “Anyone who seeks to harm Tunisia must understand clearly that what affects Tunisia also affects Algeria,” referring to the intertwined security challenges faced by both countries due to their shared border and regional security threats.
The Algerian president hinted at a concentrated campaign led by opposition blocs in Tunisia opposing President Kais Saied’s policies, alongside regional actors, against the military agreement signed between Algeria and Tunisia on October 7, 2023. This campaign followed the leak of a forged document regarding the agreement, which included allegations such as granting the Algerian army the right to penetrate 50 kilometers into Tunisian territory and the possibility of deploying Algerian forces in the event of unrest in Tunisia—claims that have not been confirmed by any official sources in either country.
The relationship between Algeria and Tunisia has historically been characterized by strong ties, particularly in terms of security and political cooperation. Both countries share a long border and face similar regional security challenges, which necessitate collaboration. Recent tensions have emerged due to political opposition in Tunisia questioning Algeria’s influence, particularly following a military agreement signed in October 2023, which has been the subject of controversy and misinformation.
