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Algeria's Moroccan Obsession in the Moroccan Press: Western Sahara Conflict and Expansionist Aims

For several years now, the Moroccan press has shown a marked interest in Algeria, an obsession that manifests itself in sustained media coverage that is often critical and biased. 

This article explores the reasons for and implications of this focus on Algeria.


Historical and Political Context

Relations between Morocco and Algeria have historically been tense, primarily due to the Western Sahara issue. Territorial conflict and political divergences have exacerbated tensions between the two neighboring countries, which is reflected in Moroccan media. Press articles often cover Algeria from a comparative angle, highlighting Morocco's purported successes against Algerian challenges, indicating a deep inferiority complex towards the "big brother" Algerian adversary.

Western Sahara Conflict

The Western Sahara conflict is one of the main sources of tension between Morocco and Algeria and largely fuels Morocco's obsession with Algeria in the media. Western Sahara, a territory located south of Morocco, is claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front, which is supported by Algeria and advocates for the territory's independence.

Algerian Support for the Polisario Front: Algeria hosts and supports the Polisario Front, providing military, logistical, and diplomatic assistance. Morocco perceives this stance as direct interference in its internal affairs and a threat to its territorial integrity. Moroccan media frequently report on Algerian actions and statements in favor of the Polisario, labeling them as destabilizing provocations.

Diplomacy and Propaganda: Moroccan media regularly accuse Algeria of conducting an international propaganda campaign against Morocco, notably through interventions at the United Nations and other international forums. These campaigns aim to support the inalienable right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination and to promote the Polisario Front's cause. Moroccan press highlights each Algerian initiative in this domain, emphasizing the persistence and intensity of Algerian efforts to destabilize Morocco.

Moroccan Expansionist Aims on Algerian Territory

Sand War (1963): The Sand War, an armed conflict between Morocco and Algeria in 1963, is often mentioned in Moroccan media to recall Morocco's historical territorial claims on certain Algerian border regions. This conflict has left lasting marks on the relations between the two countries. Moroccan media use this historical context to justify Algerian fears of a possible resurgence of Moroccan territorial ambitions.

Claiming Strategic Zones: Moroccan press often discusses border areas, particularly those rich in natural resources. For instance, the Gara Djebilet iron mine project in Algeria has sparked strong reactions in Morocco, with articles examining the legitimacy of Moroccan claims over this region. The media underscore the strategic importance of these areas and criticize the Algerian management of economic projects there.

Media Propaganda: According to Moroccan media, Algeria uses its media resources to create an anti-Moroccan narrative, aiming to weaken Morocco's international image and justify its support for the Polisario Front. This propaganda war is perceived as an extension of Algerian ambitions to dominate the Maghreb region and weaken Morocco on the international stage.

Conclusion

Morocco's obsession with Algeria in Moroccan media finds its roots in historical conflicts, territorial disputes, and political rivalries. The Western Sahara issue and historical Moroccan territorial claims over Algeria fuel an intense and often critical media coverage. This focus exacerbates tensions and complicates the possibility of reconciliation between the two nations. By closely monitoring every move by Algeria, Moroccan media contribute to maintaining an atmosphere of continuous mistrust and rivalry.

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