Moroccan Scheme to Confiscate Embassy Condemned by Algeria
Algeria has strongly denounced a recent move by Morocco to seize the premises of the Algerian embassy in Rabat.
Diplomatic relations between Algeria and Morocco soured in 2021 when Algeria accused Rabat of supporting “terrorist groups” allegedly involved in igniting wildfires within Algeria. Consequently, the Algerian embassy in Rabat has operated with reduced staff, led by a junior diplomat.
On Friday, Morocco announced its decision to confiscate Algerian-owned properties, including land, residences, and office spaces in Rabat, purportedly to expand the facilities of its foreign affairs ministry. This decision has incited outrage in Algiers.
In a statement, Algeria’s foreign ministry condemned Morocco’s actions, characterizing them as a “new phase in their provocative behavior towards Algeria.” The ministry asserted that the project constitutes a violation of international law and principles regarding the respect and protection of diplomatic missions of sovereign states.
The Algerian government has pledged to retaliate against what it perceives as provocative behavior from Morocco, promising to utilize all appropriate means. It intends to explore legal avenues, including recourse to the United Nations, to safeguard its interests.
As of now, Morocco has refrained from providing any official comment on the matter.
Tensions between the two neighboring countries have persisted for years, primarily revolving around the status of the disputed territory of Western Sahara. The longstanding territorial dispute continues to strain relations between Algeria and Morocco, contributing to ongoing diplomatic tensions and periodic escalations of friction.
