Pact Tunisia and Algeria against Morocco? The fire of the Moroccan desert stings Rabat

Tunisia and Algeria Pact Against Morocco? The Moroccan Desert Fire Bites Rabat from Qais Said’s Burrow

Introduction: The Moroccan Sahara and Regional Tensions

Moroccan King Mohammed VI recently said, “The Moroccan Sahara is the mirror through which we see our relations with the world.” While he was directing his gaze towards Algeria, he did not expect that the first country he would see through this lens would be Tunisia — a neighbor long considered neutral in the conflict. The arrival of Ibrahim Ghali, head of the separatist Polisario Front, at Tunis airport and his personal reception by Tunisian President Kais Saied shocked Morocco and shattered longstanding diplomatic norms.

Rising Diplomatic Crisis: Ambassador Withdrawals and Summit Boycotts

The situation quickly escalated as Morocco withdrew its ambassador from Tunisia for consultations, labeling Tunisian rhetoric as aggressive. Morocco also decided to boycott the African-Japanese Summit (TICAD 8) held in Tunisia on August 27-28. Tunisia responded by withdrawing its ambassador from Rabat and justified its actions by stressing that Ghali was invited by the African Union to attend the summit in his capacity as leader of the Polisario Front — an act that Morocco views as support for separatism.

Tunisia’s Shift: From Neutrality to Taking Sides

Tunisia’s traditionally neutral stance on the Moroccan Sahara issue has shifted noticeably under President Kais Saied. Despite official statements reaffirming neutrality and a preference for dialogue, Tunisia’s recent moves indicate a tilt towards Algeria’s position, which strongly supports the Polisario Front’s claims. This shift has caused Morocco to lose a regional ally and added strain to Maghreb relations, deepening the rift between Rabat and Tunis.

Geopolitical Context: Tunisia’s Changing Alliances

The sudden change is not isolated. Tunisia under Kais Saied has been redefining its foreign policy — extending support to the Syrian regime, backing factions within the Libyan crisis, and strengthening ties with Russia and China, both increasingly influential in North Africa. Political analysts warn that abandoning neutrality may jeopardize Tunisia’s own interests, while others see it as a strategic move to reposition Tunisia within shifting regional power dynamics.

Conclusion: A Lasting Rift or Temporary Storm?

With Morocco and Tunisia now at odds over the Sahara issue, supported by Algeria’s involvement, the question remains: Has Tunisia truly joined Algeria in antagonism against Morocco, igniting a conflict that may be long-lasting? Or is this tension a temporary cloud that could clear, restoring the traditional Maghreb relations? The coming months will be critical in defining the future of these intertwined neighbors.