Fact Check: "Morocco severed diplomatic relationship with Algeria"
What We Know
The claim that "Morocco severed diplomatic relationship with Algeria" is incorrect. In fact, it was Algeria that severed diplomatic ties with Morocco on August 24, 2021. The Algerian government accused Morocco of supporting separatist movements within Algeria, particularly in the Kabylia region, and cited a series of hostile actions as the rationale for this decision (Algeria–Morocco relations, DW). Since then, the diplomatic relationship has been characterized by heightened tensions, but Morocco has not taken the step of severing ties; rather, it has continued to maintain its diplomatic presence in Algeria, albeit under strained conditions (Algeria–Morocco relations).
Analysis
The assertion that Morocco severed ties with Algeria misrepresents the situation. The source of this confusion may stem from the ongoing diplomatic tensions and hostilities between the two nations. Since the severing of ties by Algeria, both countries have engaged in various diplomatic actions that reflect their adversarial relationship, including the expulsion of diplomats and public accusations (Dragonfly Intelligence, Watanserb, Morocco World News).
Algeria's decision to cut diplomatic relations was a significant escalation in their long-standing disputes, which have historical roots dating back to territorial conflicts and differing positions on the Western Sahara issue (Algeria–Morocco relations, Cyfirma). The claim that Morocco has taken similar action lacks factual support and is contradicted by multiple reliable sources.
The reliability of the sources used to verify this claim is high, as they include established news organizations and academic analyses that provide a comprehensive overview of the geopolitical dynamics between Algeria and Morocco. The sources consistently indicate that it is Algeria that has severed ties, not Morocco.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that "Morocco severed diplomatic relationship with Algeria" is false. It is Algeria that severed diplomatic ties with Morocco in August 2021, citing various grievances against Morocco. Morocco has not reciprocated this action and continues to maintain its diplomatic presence in Algeria, despite the ongoing tensions.
Sources
- Algeria–Morocco relations
- Algeria / Morocco | Anticipating a future conflict
- Algeria Expels Moroccan Diplomat Amid Rising Tensions with ...
- Algeria Orders Moroccan Deputy Consul General to Leave
- Algeria severs diplomatic ties with Morocco
- Tensions are rising between Algeria and Morocco
- EXPLAINER : THE ALGERIA / MOROCCO TENSIONS
- Crisis between Algeria and Morocco