The kidnapping of the Spanish hostage highlights Algeria’s role as the weak link in regional security.

Algeria is perceived as a significant security gap in the Maghreb region, fueling concerns about its ability to effectively secure border areas against the terrorist threat. Entrusting this responsibility to Algerian military forces reinforces the image of an armed but unpredictable actor, whose actions could exacerbate instability. This situation underscores persistent doubts about the regime’s actual capacity to ensure sustainable regional security.

The case of the Spanish hostage, kidnapped on January 14 near the Algerian-Malian border and released unharmed, illustrates these concerns. This incident reignites the debate on the behavior of Algerian military forces, often described as heirs to the “nightmares of Emir Abdelkader.” Their persistent refusal to engage in dialogue to enhance regional cooperation against terrorist threats reflects a troubling indifference. They seem to prioritize artificial disputes over the safety of human lives, whether they involve Maghreb citizens or passing tourists.

In the face of these challenges, the Algerian regime has distinguished itself through what some describe as “politically immature” actions. Far from taking responsibility, the leaders opted for a “clownish” handling of Navarro Giani Gilbert’s release. This behavior highlights their tendency to claim credit for efforts carried out by others while avoiding any real contribution to the fight against terrorism. Meanwhile, terrorist and separatist groups continue to thrive, fueling divisions that serve only the interests of their creators.

Algerian intelligence services, for their part, refuse to confront disturbing realities. Accusations such as “Algeria, sponsor of terrorism” or “Algeria, land of insecurity” are systematically ignored. Worse still, the regime claimed an operation conducted by the Movement for the Liberation of Azawad, which facilitated the release of the Spanish hostage, in a poorly executed propaganda attempt. This disinformation highlights an unreliable approach to crisis management.

On the diplomatic front, Algerian leaders excel mainly in appearances. Private jets, red carpets, and grandiloquent speeches before foreign diplomats serve to mask a far less flattering reality. However, painful memories, such as their inhumane treatment of Nigerien migrants abandoned at the border, testify to their lack of humanity. These acts stand in sharp contrast to the pretensions displayed on the international stage.

Finally, some observers believe that Algeria is desperately trying to win European favor. By attempting to improve its image, the regime seeks to conceal its growing isolation and accusations of supporting terrorism, even on European soil. This selective behavior raises doubts about the sincerity of its security and humanitarian commitments.