In statements that sparked a wave of mockery and questions on social media, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced during an electoral rally in Constantine that the Algerian army was ready to enter Gaza “if the borders were open.”
Algerian President Tebboune announces: "The Algerian army is ready to go to Palestine, we're just waiting for Egypt to open the borders."
Really? Who is he trying to fool? pic.twitter.com/qSHNfTC3cu
— Diplomatique.ma الدبلوماسية (@diplomatique_ma) August 19, 2024
Tebboune went on to assert that his country could build three hospitals within 20 days and send hundreds of doctors to help rebuild what the “Zionists” had destroyed.
However, these statements, which might seem impressive at first glance, were labeled as “populist” by many social media users, opening the door to ridicule and skepticism about Tebboune’s intentions. Given the reality faced by the Algerian people, where some local hospitals have been unfinished for years, many are questioning the seriousness of these promises.
What is the purpose of these statements?
It is important to ask: what prompted Tebboune to make these statements at this particular time? Is it an attempt to garner popular support as the presidential elections approach? Or is it an attempt to divert attention from Algeria’s internal problems, such as unemployment and deteriorating economic conditions? And why focus on the Palestinian issue while the Algerian authorities are banning any demonstrations or protests in support of the Palestinian people?
Implications of the statements on Algerian-Egyptian relations
In addition to the mockery, Tebboune’s statements have raised questions about the future of Algerian-Egyptian relations. The suggestion that Egypt is closing the borders to the Algerian army could be interpreted as a direct accusation against Cairo of obstructing aid to Gaza. Will these statements open a new chapter of tension between the two countries? And what is the purpose of these indirect accusations?
The reality on the ground: Words without actions?
In response to Tebboune’s statements, Algerian opposition journalist Walid Kébir said that these statements are merely an attempt to “play on the emotions of the masses” and that “they will certainly have repercussions on Algerian-Egyptian relations.” He added that “building hospitals in Gaza does not require opening land borders, as the sea route can be used if there is genuine courage and will.”
Kébir further stated that the Algerian regime “is exploiting the Palestinian cause to seek lost legitimacy,” noting that other countries like Kuwait have sent thousands of tons of aid to Gaza despite having no relations with Israel, while Algeria has done little in comparison.
Is there a real intention or just slogans?
In the end, questions remain about the sincerity of Tebboune’s statements. Are they merely slogans to gain popular support, or is there a genuine intention to take concrete steps to support the Palestinian people? What tools does the Algerian regime have to fulfill these promises? Many questions remain unanswered as the suffering of both the Algerian and Palestinian peoples continues.
