Moroccan Minister Accuses Algeria of ’State Terrorism’ in Sahara Attack

In his speech, Abdellatif Ouahbi described the attacks on Smara as criminal and terrorist, arguing that they constitute an act of war. This is the first official reaction of a member of the Moroccan government on these attacks, perpetrated by the Polisario with the support of Algeria. To recall, neighborhoods of Smara were the target of four bombings in the night of October 28 to 29, leaving 1 dead and 3 injured, including 2 seriously, as well as material damage.

"Can we not adjust some behaviors of our Algerian neighbor to see it as an attack and a threat to peace and security in the world? Sending missiles, from Algerian territory and targeting our lands, is this not terrorism? Have we not moved from terrorism committed by individuals to state terrorism? When I try to understand, I realize that you (Algeria, ed.) are in a position of weakness rather than in a situation of strength," Ouahbi sharply reacted, in response to his Algerian counterpart, Noureddine Amir, on the definition of the principle of self-determination.

For the Moroccan minister, these attacks constitute an act of betrayal. "It is clear that geography has done us harm, by placing us side by side with our neighbors. And we have no power over geography. On the other hand, we refer to History to say that our blood has mingled in our struggle for our independence. Isn’t that enough for us to live in peace and security? To the one who calls me brother, I answer: ’You too, my son!’" he details.

The competent prosecutor’s office in Laâyoune has opened an investigation into these attacks in order to determine responsibilities. Pending the results, the Moroccan authorities are refraining from any comment. "They will speak as soon as they obtain the first elements," we are told. A team from the UN mission in the Sahara (MINURSO), led by Alexander Ivanko, has also traveled to Rabat to conduct its investigations and has already produced a report that will be submitted to the Security Council.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1lIJYE_q7E