Algeria Presides Over the UN Security Council: Diplomatic Poise in the Face of Israel

In January 2025, Algeria assumes the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council, a prestigious yet challenging responsibility that places the country at the center of global diplomatic efforts. One of the most delicate situations Algeria faces in this role is dealing with the presence of Israel’s delegation, given that Algeria does not recognize Israel as a state. This context has led to a remarkable and tense exchange between Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama and the Israeli representative, as the Algerian diplomat skillfully balanced his obligations as Council president with Algeria's firm national stance.

A Subtle Protocol That Sparks Controversy

Since the beginning of Algeria's presidency of the Security Council, observers have noted a distinct linguistic choice by Ambassador Amar Bendjama when granting speaking time to Israel’s representative. Unlike other delegations, to whom he directly says, “I give the floor to…”, Bendjama adopts a more detached and formal phrasing for Israel: “The President of the Council gives the floor to the representative of Israel.”

This difference did not go unnoticed, especially by the Israeli delegate, who openly voiced his displeasure during a recent session, asking:

“I have noticed that when you grant the floor to a representative of a state, you say, ‘I give the floor.’ But when it comes to Israel, you say, ‘The President of the Council gives the floor.’ Why this difference?”

Remaining composed and unshaken, Bendjama replied simply:

“Are you finished with your intervention?”

The Israeli representative pressed on, continuing:

“No, I haven’t started yet. I wanted to understand why this difference exists. At first, I thought it was an error on your part, but it turns out it is intentional. As President of the Council, you are supposed to set your feelings aside.”

This exchange highlighted the Israeli delegation's frustration with Bendjama's phrasing, while the Algerian diplomat, adhering to a reserved yet firm approach, made it clear that granting the floor to Israel was a procedural necessity rather than a voluntary action.

Balancing International Obligations and National Principles

The subtle phrasing used by Amar Bendjama reflects Algeria's delicate position. As president of the Security Council, Algeria is required to adhere to international protocols and treat all member delegations fairly, including Israel, despite the absence of diplomatic relations between the two states.

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf had addressed this very issue before Algeria assumed the Council presidency. In an interview with Al24 News, Attaf clarified Algeria's approach to the matter, stating:

“The presidency of the Security Council is a responsibility that imposes obligations on the country holding it. Algeria, while retaining its national positions, must respect the traditions, practices, and rules of the Council.”

He further explained:

“The exception for a country presiding over the Security Council is that it speaks in its capacity as President of the Council, not as a state with its own national positions.”

This clarification underscores the dual responsibility Algeria faces: maintaining its principled rejection of Israel while fulfilling its international duties as a neutral and impartial Council president.

Avoiding Implicit Recognition of Israel

Historically, Algerian delegations at the UN would withdraw from sessions when Israel was granted the floor. However, such a gesture is no longer feasible during Algeria’s presidency of the Security Council, which demands formal interaction with all members.

To preempt concerns, Ahmed Attaf stressed that Algeria's procedural engagement with Israel during this period does not equate to any form of “implicit recognition.” He stated:

“In international relations, there is no such thing as implicit recognition. Recognition between states is always formal, transparent, and governed by clear conditions and procedures.”

This statement reinforces that Algeria’s interactions with the Israeli delegation are purely procedural, mandated by its role, and do not alter its longstanding national position.

Diplomatic Poise in a Complex Context

The Algerian approach to this situation reflects its ability to strike a careful balance between respecting international norms and upholding national principles. Through precise and deliberate language, Ambassador Amar Bendjama fulfills his responsibilities as Council president while signaling Algeria’s firm stance on the matter.

This balancing act is no small feat in the complex world of international diplomacy, where subtle gestures and words carry significant weight. Algeria's presidency of the Council has highlighted its capacity to navigate such sensitive situations with professionalism and tact.

Conclusion: Principles Meet International Responsibility

Algeria’s presidency of the UN Security Council in January 2025 serves as a real test of its diplomatic agility, particularly in handling interactions with Israel, a matter of great sensitivity for the country.

By adopting a measured and diplomatic approach, Algeria has demonstrated its ability to honor its international obligations while remaining true to its national convictions. This experience offers a unique example of how a country can balance principle and pragmatism in the complex arena of international relations.

Through subtle yet firm diplomacy, Algeria has shown that it can navigate these challenges with grace, maintaining its integrity while fulfilling its duties. This moment underscores Algeria's ability to stand by its values while operating effectively within the multilateral system.