Russia

Algeria cuts diplomatic ties with UAE

RT English · 2026-09-10

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Algeria has officially severed diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates, citing a pattern of hostile conduct and a failure to maintain constructive dialogue. The UAE ambassador has been given 48 hours to leave the country. • Why it matters: This diplomatic break reflects escalating tensions between Algeria and the UAE, driven by disagreements over regional issues, including the Western Sahara conflict and allegations of Emirati interference in Algeria's internal affairs. • What to watch next: Monitor the responses from the UAE and other regional players, as well as any potential shifts in alliances or diplomatic actions among African nations in light of this rift.

**Algeria Cuts Diplomatic Ties with the UAE Amid Rising Tensions**

Algiers, Algeria – In a significant diplomatic move, Algeria has officially severed its diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), citing a pattern of hostile conduct from the Gulf nation. The announcement was made by the Algerian Foreign Ministry on Thursday, following a formal summoning of the UAE ambassador, who has been given 48 hours to leave the country.

The ministry's statement indicated that Algeria had "exhausted all means" of maintaining a constructive relationship with the UAE, emphasizing that the actions of the Emirati government could no longer be deemed acceptable between sovereign nations. The statement pointedly noted that despite numerous warnings issued by Algeria, the UAE continued its activities, which Algiers perceives as provocative.

While the statement did not detail a specific incident that triggered the diplomatic break, it highlighted the ongoing deterioration of relations over the past few years. Tensions have escalated due to allegations of Emirati interference in Algeria's internal affairs and disagreements on various regional issues. Key points of contention include the normalization of relations with Israel and the UAE's alleged involvement in conflicts in Libya, Sudan, and the Sahel region.

Another significant area of disagreement is the Western Sahara conflict. Algeria has long supported the Polisario Front, which advocates for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people, while the UAE has aligned itself with Morocco, which claims sovereignty over the disputed territory. In a notable development, the UAE became the first Arab nation to open a consulate in Moroccan-controlled Western Sahara in 2020, further straining relations with Algeria.

Moreover, Algerian media has accused the UAE of having ties to the Movement for the Self-Determination of Kabylia, a group that the Algerian government designated as a terrorist organization in 2021. These accusations have added another layer of complexity to the already fraught relationship between the two nations.

As of now, the UAE has not publicly responded to Algeria's decision to cut diplomatic ties. Historically, Abu Dhabi has denied allegations of attempting to destabilize Algeria or interfering in its domestic affairs.

Algeria's decision follows a broader trend among African nations taking diplomatic actions against the UAE. In May 2025, Sudan severed its relations with the UAE, labeling it a "state of aggression" and accusing it of arming the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces amid the ongoing civil conflict in the country. The UAE has consistently denied these allegations. Additionally, Somalia terminated all agreements with the UAE earlier this year, citing threats to its sovereignty and political stability, although some regional administrations within Somalia opposed this decision.

The severing of ties between Algeria and the UAE marks a notable shift in the diplomatic landscape of North Africa, highlighting the complexities and challenges of regional politics. As both nations navigate this new reality, the implications of this diplomatic rift may resonate beyond their borders, affecting regional alliances and stability in the broader context of North African geopolitics.

Source: RT English
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