The Moroccan Association for the Defense of Victims of Forced Displacement has expressed alarm over the growing restrictions on Moroccans residing in Algeria. In a recent statement, the association, led by Hamid Al-Aty Allah, warned of the escalating tensions between the two countries and its impact on Moroccan citizens living in Algeria. The association's concerns come after the Algerian authorities arrested 61 Moroccan nationals on suspicion of planning subversive acts in the city of Oran.
The association has questioned the validity of the allegations made by the Algerian authorities, citing the implausible claim that the detainees had traveled from Tunisia through mountainous border regions and covered over 1,000 kilometers to reach Oran. The association's statement described the allegations as baseless and aimed at tarnishing the image of Moroccans, fueling hatred and animosity between the two nations.
The association has also criticized the Algerian authorities' handling of the situation, accusing them of misinformation and provocation. The association noted that the lack of clear and convincing evidence has raised concerns about the true motives behind the arrests. Furthermore, the association warned that such actions could lead to the stigmatization of Moroccans and undermine the historically strong relations between the two countries.
The association has called on the Moroccan government to take necessary measures to protect its citizens living in Algeria, emphasizing that Moroccan nationality is not a crime and that the dignity of Moroccans is inviolable. The association also urged Moroccans living in Algeria to exercise caution, settle their legal affairs, and stay informed about legislative developments that may affect their rights and residency.
The association has also highlighted the risks associated with the recent amendments to the Algerian Nationality Law, specifically the law issued on February 17, 2026, which amends and complements the 1970 law on Algerian nationality. The association expressed concerns that the new law could be used to target Moroccans living in Algeria, particularly those who have acquired Algerian citizenship through naturalization or marriage.
The association's concerns are not unfounded, given the historical context of forced displacement of Moroccans from Algeria in 1975. The association has urged Moroccans living in Algeria to consider returning to Morocco, citing the risks and uncertainties associated with the current situation. The association's statement concluded by emphasizing that the memory of past injustices will not fade, and the dignity of Moroccans will not be compromised.
The situation has sparked concerns about the potential consequences for Moroccans living in Algeria, with many calling for calm and restraint. The incident has also raised questions about the future of relations between Morocco and Algeria, with both countries having significant economic and cultural ties. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the two countries will navigate this complex issue.
Key points
- The Moroccan Association for the Defense of Victims of Forced Displacement has warned of increasing restrictions on Moroccans living in Algeria.
- The association has expressed concerns about the validity of allegations made by the Algerian authorities against 61 Moroccan nationals arrested on suspicion of planning subversive acts.
- The association has urged Moroccans living in Algeria to exercise caution and consider returning to Morocco due to the risks and uncertainties associated with the current situation.
