Algeria Summons French Ambassador Over Franco-Moroccan Military Exercise "CHERGUI 2025"
On March 6, 2025, Algeria summoned the French ambassador over the planned "CHERGUI 2025" military exercise in Morocco, labeling it a provocative act amid deteriorating Franco-Algerian relations. The exercise intensifies tensions stemming from France's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and complicates bilateral ties further.
hassan benyoub 
March 6, 2025 – Algeria escalated diplomatic tensions with France on Thursday by summoning French Ambassador Stéphane Romatet to Algiers to demand explanations regarding the upcoming Franco-Moroccan military exercise, "CHERGUI 2025." Scheduled to take place in Rachidia, a city in eastern Morocco near the Algerian border, the joint drill has been labeled a "provocative act" by Algerian officials, further straining the already fragile Algiers-Paris relationship.
Lounès Magramane, Secretary General of the Algerian Foreign Ministry, condemned the exercise, warning that it "will inevitably fuel the crisis characterizing Franco-Algerian relations and elevate tensions to a more severe level." The choice of Rachidia—close to the long-sealed Algeria-Morocco border—and the exercise’s name, "CHERGUI" (a regional east wind), appear to have heightened Algeria’s concerns about perceived French alignment with Morocco.
A Deepening Diplomatic Rift
The summons comes amid a backdrop of deteriorating ties between France and Algeria, exacerbated by France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2024—a move that infuriated Algiers, a staunch supporter of the Polisario Front. Recent disputes over migration, deportations, and Algeria’s refusal to accept expelled nationals have further complicated bilateral relations. The Franco-Moroccan military cooperation now risks being seen as an additional affront, particularly given the historical rivalry between Algeria and Morocco, whose diplomatic ties have been severed since 2021.
While details of "CHERGUI 2025" remain limited, its proximity to Algerian territory has sparked speculation about its strategic intent. Algerian authorities view the exercise as an unwelcome intrusion into their sphere of influence, amplifying perceptions of French favoritism toward Rabat.
Broader Regional Implications
This latest flare-up underscores the delicate balancing act France faces in maintaining relations with both North African powers. The timing is particularly sensitive as Paris grapples with ongoing migration disputes and seeks to stabilize ties with Algiers. No official response has yet emerged from France, but analysts suggest the incident could hinder recent efforts by President Emmanuel Macron to ease tensions with Algeria.
As the situation unfolds, the "CHERGUI 2025" exercise risks becoming a flashpoint in an already volatile region, with potential repercussions for Franco-Algerian dialogue and Maghreb geopolitics. Observers will be watching closely for France’s next move and whether Algeria opts for further diplomatic escalation.
