Algeria has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of orchestrating a deliberate operation to undermine its national unity, escalating tensions between the two nations. The accusations, voiced by Algerian authorities, including President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, center on controversial remarks made by Algerian historian Mohamed Lamine Belghit on the Emirati-funded Sky News Arabia.
A Diplomatic Firestorm
On May 2, 2025, Algerian state television (ENTV) aired a scathing editorial, calling the UAE a “mini-artificial state” and vowing to respond “blow for blow.” The editorial labeled national unity a “red line” and framed Belghit’s comments as an attack on Algeria’s identity, specifically targeting its Amazigh component. The timing, amid regional tensions and Algeria’s upcoming general mobilization law, has fueled suspicions of a coordinated plot.
Belghit’s Role in the Controversy
Mohamed Lamine Belghit, an Algerian academic, claimed on Sky News Arabia that the Amazigh identity is a “creation of French and Israeli services,” denying its historical legitimacy. These remarks, broadcast on an Emirati platform, were perceived as an assault on a core element of Algeria’s constitutional identity, which recognizes Amazigh, Arab, and Islamic components. Belghit’s statements align with a broader ideological current, Badissia Novembaria, which Algerian authorities claim is backed by the UAE to sow division.
Algeria’s Grievances Against the UAE
Algeria’s frustrations with the UAE extend beyond this incident. President Tebboune previously accused the UAE of fueling conflicts in Mali, Libya, and Sudan, citing their financial influence. The UAE’s normalization with Israel via the Abraham Accords, support for Morocco in disputes with Algeria, and backing of anti-Algerian factions in the Sahel and Libya have deepened the rift. Additionally, the UAE’s alleged funding of a Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline, seen as a rival to Algeria’s more viable project, is viewed as economic sabotage.
A Conspiracy to Strike from Within
Algerian authorities allege the UAE is sponsoring a divisive ideological movement that emerged around 2018, challenging the country’s unified identity as enshrined in the 2016 Constitution. This movement, led by figures like Belghit, is accused of attacking national symbols, including revolutionary heroes from Kabylia like Abane Ramdane, and fueling regional tensions. In 2024, Tebboune condemned such attacks, noting their potential to incite separatism, including by the Kabyle-based MAK movement, which was reportedly hosted in the UAE a year ago.
The timing of Belghit’s remarks, just as Algeria prepares a general mobilization law to unify its regions against external threats, has led to claims of a “transparent conspiracy” orchestrated by the UAE. Algerian state media described the UAE’s actions as a “desperate attempt by rootless entities” to destabilize a nation rooted in resistance.
A Broader Geopolitical Context
The Belghit affair has ignited a diplomatic crisis, with Algeria framing the UAE’s actions as part of a pattern of interference in African and Arab affairs. Social media posts reflect polarized sentiments, with some Algerians praising the government’s firm stance, while others question the escalation’s necessity. The controversy underscores Algeria’s sensitivity to threats against its unity, especially as it navigates regional challenges and internal cohesion.
