Algeria Reinstates Visa Requirements for Moroccans

Algeria has reinstated visa requirements for Moroccan nationals, citing accusations of Morocco exploiting visa-free entries for criminal activities, including organized crime, drug trafficking, and espionage, particularly involving 'Zionist' agents. This measure follows a deterioration in diplomatic relations, exacerbated by the long-standing dispute over Western Sahara, which Algeria supports the Polisario Front seeking independence. Despite no evidence being presented for these claims, Algeria's government stated that Morocco's actions threaten national security and stability. Diplomatic ties were severed in 2021 due to various hostile acts, and Algeria has since enacted measures such as halting gas supplies through Morocco and banning its aircraft. The reimposition of visa requirements marks a significant shift in Algeria's immigration policy, reflecting rising security concerns and a response to Morocco's purported abuses of the previously relaxed border regulations. Algeria asserts that Morocco is fully responsible for the current state of bilateral relations.