Accusations and testimonies point to possible links between the Azawad Liberation Front, jihadist groups active in the Sahel, and the Polisario, with areas of influence reportedly extending into Algeria.
Algeria topped the list of military spending in Africa in 2025, while Morocco ranked second. This scenario reflects the escalating military rivalry between the two countries, driven by their longstanding dispute over the Sahara issue.
In a bid to rival Morocco's strategic Atlantic initiative, Algeria has unveiled plans to position the Djen Djen port as a key trade hub for Sahel and Sahara nations, intensifying regional competition.
The recent meeting in Turkey between Donald Trump's special advisor, Massad Boulos, and the Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, has sparked a shift in stance within the Polisario Front, which now openly opposes American demands. In response, the Trump administration has taken a tougher stance.