Algerian Army Holds Tactical Exercise Amidst Rising Tensions with Morocco and Israel

The Algerian army recently conducted a successful tactical exercise, "Sakr El-Moutawassit 2026", in the country's western coastal region. The exercise, which involved a missile defense system, was supervised by General Saïd Chengriha, Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defense and Chief of Staff of the People's National Army (ANP). The exercise demonstrated the military's readiness and strength, with the missile successfully hitting a naval target with great precision.

The exercise is part of the ANP's ongoing efforts to enhance its combat preparedness and protect the country's security and stability. According to a statement by the Ministry of National Defense, the exercise showcased the mastery of various military systems and equipment by the Algerian naval forces. The exercise also highlighted the progress made by the ANP in recent years, particularly in terms of operational readiness and capabilities.

The tactical exercise comes amid rising tensions between Algeria and its western neighbor, Morocco, which has been strengthening its military ties with Israel. In 2021, Morocco and Israel signed a defense agreement, which includes cooperation in areas such as intelligence sharing, technology transfer, and joint military exercises. The agreement has raised concerns in Algeria, which has long been wary of Israel's military presence in the region.

Algeria has been critical of Morocco's decision to normalize relations with Israel, which it sees as a threat to regional stability and security. In 2021, Algerian Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, then Israeli Foreign Minister, made threatening remarks towards Algeria, criticizing its role in the region and its alliance with Iran. The tensions between Algeria and Morocco have been further exacerbated by Morocco's deployment of troops to the occupied Palestinian territories in 2025.

In response to the growing military cooperation between Morocco and Israel, Algeria has been maintaining a high level of vigilance and military readiness. The ANP has been conducting regular exercises and operations to protect the country's security and stability. General Chengriha emphasized the importance of continued efforts to enhance the military's capabilities and readiness to address emerging threats.

The Algerian army's demonstration of strength and readiness is seen as a message of deterrence to any potential threats to the country's security and stability. The exercise also highlights the country's commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Algeria has been a vocal critic of Israeli aggression in the region and has maintained its support for the Palestinian cause.

The military exercise is part of Algeria's ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen its military capabilities. The country has been investing in its military infrastructure and equipment, including the acquisition of new naval vessels and defense systems. The ANP's efforts to enhance its military readiness and capabilities are aimed at protecting the country's security and stability in a rapidly changing regional environment.

Key points

• Algerian army conducts successful tactical exercise to demonstrate military readiness and strength
• Exercise aims to protect country's security and stability amid rising tensions with Morocco and Israel
• Algeria maintains high level of vigilance and military readiness to address emerging threats