Algiers, Algeria – Algeria has officially closed its airspace to neighboring Mali amid a sharp deterioration in diplomatic relations, citing repeated violations and the controversial downing of a Malian drone at the end of March.

Algerian authorities confirmed that the drone, which they claim re-entered Algerian airspace on an “offensive trajectory,” was intercepted and shot down. The Malian government, however, insisted the drone was operating 9.5 kilometers from the Algerian border and posed no threat.

The incident has sparked a series of diplomatic reprisals:

▪ Drone Dispute: Algeria labeled the drone flight a breach of sovereignty, while Mali, part of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) alongside Niger and Burkina Faso, condemned the shootdown as “irresponsible” and “a violation of international law.”

▪ Diplomatic Retaliation: Algeria recalled its ambassadors from Mali and Niger and halted the planned deployment of one to Burkina Faso. In response, all three AES nations recalled their envoys from Algiers, accusing Algeria of obstructing a regional counter-terrorism mission.

▪ Escalating Accusations: Algeria dismissed AES allegations as “serious and false,” stating its actions were based on national security imperatives.

The confrontation underscores growing instability in the region as competing security strategies and alliances take shape in the Sahel. Regional observers warn that further deterioration could hamper joint anti-terrorism efforts and affect economic cooperation.

Source: Sputnik Africa