Axel Belabbass, a leader of the “Movement for the Self-Determination of Kabylie” (MAK), stated in an interview with “expresstv.ma” that Algeria’s recent actions along the eastern borders of Morocco are aimed at creating “artificial tension to avoid international pressure, particularly from the United States, which calls for dialogue to address unresolved issues.” Belabbass emphasized that entering direct dialogue would put Algeria in a difficult position, demanding concrete evidence for previous accusations against Morocco, including claims regarding the Kabylie fires, funding for MAK, and support for terrorism.
The developments on the ground followed what Rabat described as “provocative and reckless” Algerian maneuvers near the area of Iche, in the Figuig province, where Algeria removed wires protecting Moroccan farmers’ orchards and set up field markers, without crossing any borders.
The Royal Armed Forces quickly responded by raising their alert status and deploying military units at sensitive points along the eastern border, asserting that any threat to Moroccan sovereignty or citizens’ land would be met with defensive firmness, without engaging in military adventures.
Belabbass asserted that Algeria, through these actions, is trying to evade the dialogue path and avoid negotiations, while Morocco continues to exercise restraint and adhere to international law and respect its borders, highlighting the fragility of the claims made against it, including accusations related to Morocco’s role in normalizing relations with Israel under international scrutiny.
