Algeria downed a military drone near its border with Mali, marking the first incident amid rising tensions. Mali’s military acknowledged the drone’s crash but did not confirm it was shot down. Analysts suggest this reflects Algeria’s growing frustrations over Mali’s military activities and alliances. The relationship between the two countries has worsened since recent coups in Mali, raising concerns about regional stability.
Algeria announced on Tuesday the downing of a military drone near its border with Mali, marking a rare incident amid rising tensions between the two nations. The Algerian army reported that the armed reconnaissance drone entered its airspace close to Tin Zaouatine, a territory known for Tuareg separatist activities. Mali’s military acknowledged the drone crash but did not confirm whether it was shot down by Algeria.
According to Rida Lyammouri, an expert from the Morocco-based Policy Center for the New South, this act of downing the drone signifies escalating frustrations. He stated, “It confirms the serious tensions between the countries and unwillingness and zero tolerance by Algeria to allow the use of its airspace and territory by Malian forces.”
Tensions have been mounting between Algeria and Mali, which were once connected through Algeria’s role as a mediator during over a decade-long conflict involving Tuareg rebels. However, relations have deteriorated since the military coups in Mali in 2020 and 2021, leading to a distancing between the two governments.
Algeria has condemned Mali’s emerging alliance with Russian forces and its use of mercenaries in tackling insurgencies in northern Mali. The concerns arise from fears of conflict spilling over into Algeria, especially given the humanitarian crises that previous governmental failures have triggered in Mali.
Mali’s Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, highlighted the commitment to promptly address violence in the north. Furthermore, Mali has acquired Akinci drones from the Turkish company Baykar, which they have utilized against separatist groups and extremist fighters.
While Algeria did not indicate the origin of the intercepted drone, a representative from Mali’s army refrained from making comments about Algeria’s claims. Nonetheless, it was noted that the crash did not result in injuries or damage to property.
In summary, the downing of a military drone by Algeria near its border with Mali underscores the increasing tensions between the two nations. The incident reflects Algeria’s firm stance against unauthorized incursions into its airspace and highlights the deteriorating relations following recent political upheavals in Mali. The evolving dynamics between both countries pose significant implications for regional stability as they navigate the complex challenges of armed insurgency and foreign alliances.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
