The Algerian Army plays with fire: Dangerous provocation against civilians in Moroccan Sahara
The cowardly attack that took place last Saturday marks an escalation orchestrated by Algeria’s military junta through its Polisario proxies. While civilians were peacefully celebrating the 49th anniversary of the Green March in Al Mahbès in Moroccan Sahara, armed Polisario militias, deployed by Algeria, fired rockets in their direction. Four projectiles narrowly missed the tents where Sahrawi families were gathered to commemorate this symbol of peace and unity, fortunately without causing any casualties.
This despicable attempt was yet another effort to spread terror among the Sahrawi populations, blatantly disregarding basic UN principles. By targeting civilians, the Polisario and the Algerian junta have shown a deep contempt for international law, as they continue their provocative policies in hopes of destabilizing the pacified regions of Moroccan Sahara. These recurrent attacks reveal just how far Algiers is willing to go to prevent any peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict.
The Royal Armed Forces (FAR) responded without delay. An FAR drone quickly located and neutralized the armed militias, who were traveling in four off-road vehicles. Among the eliminated targets were senior Polisario leaders. This FAR intervention marks the third strike this week, demonstrating Morocco’s commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring security in its southern provinces.
This blind violence is not an isolated incident. In 2023, similar attacks in Es-Smara claimed the life of a young Moroccan expatriate, killed by rockets fired by the Polisario. Algeria’s military junta, increasingly cornered by its failing policies, seems to be seeking refuge in a spiral of military escalation that only heightens regional tensions and undermines peace prospects.
The time has come for the international community, particularly the United Nations, to stop ignoring these provocations and to take action against Algeria’s belligerent policies. Morocco will continue, with the support of its partners, to strengthen its strategic position for peace and regional security while ensuring the well-being of its Sahrawi populations in the face of these irresponsible maneuvers.
Abderrazzak Boussaid/Le7tv
