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The CIA declassifies a document that reveals Morocco's true motives in the 1963 Sand War

The recent declassification of a CIA document dated August 23, 1957, sheds new light on French intentions regarding oil fields in Algeria and plans for post-independence Algeria. This document provides valuable details on French economic and political strategies, as well as the geopolitical dynamics of the era.

French Intentions for the Algerian Sahara

According to the document, France intended to retain the Algerian Sahara at all costs, planning to divide it into two separate departments. This decision reflects the strategic importance of this resource-rich region for France. The Sahara, with its vast oil and gas reserves, represented a major economic stake.

Infrastructure Strategy and Cooperation with Spain

France did not plan to build pipelines to the north of Algeria to avoid any energy dependence on an independent Algeria. Instead, discussions were underway with Spain to evacuate oil and gas via Western Sahara, then under Spanish control. The Spanish authorities, enthusiastic about the idea, had even guaranteed their intention to maintain their presence in Western Sahara.

Border Issues with Libya

The document also addresses border tensions with Libya, which claimed territories including the Zarzaitine, Edjeleh, and Tiguentourine fields. To resolve this issue, France allegedly bribed the Libyan Prime Minister at the time, Ben Halim, to definitively settle the borders in France's favor. This aspect highlights the political and diplomatic maneuvers employed to secure French economic interests in Algeria.

Geopolitical Context and Consequences

A particularly noteworthy aspect of the document is the coincidence between the oil-rich regions of southwestern Algeria and the territorial claims of Hassan II, the King of Morocco. These claims led to the Sand War in October 1963. Given the close relations between American intelligence services and Morocco, it is legitimate to wonder if information may have been leaked to Morocco.

Although the concept of the "Greater Morocco" emerged in 1955, before the discovery of oil resources in Algeria, the richness of the coveted area undoubtedly reinforced Moroccan ambitions. A swift war against Algeria would have allowed Morocco to seize a region rich in hydrocarbons and iron ore, ensuring a quick return on investment.

Conclusion and Perspectives

Despite the significant revelations, the CIA document has not been fully declassified. Two of the six pages remain secret, retaining potentially crucial information about the geopolitical and geostrategic interests at play.

This information provides a new perspective on French motivations and strategies, as well as the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Algeria's independence. They also underline Algeria's strategic importance in the international context, even after its independence.





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