Historical Revelations: Algeria's Early Moves in the Sahara Before the Sand War
Recently declassified French documents reveal significant geopolitical maneuvers in North Africa during the early 1960s, particularly a 1962 encounter between the Algerian National Liberation Army and Spanish authorities. This event, preceding the Sand War, highlights Algeria's strategic intentions and efforts to establish ties with Spain amid regional tensions, influencing contemporary dynamics.
hassan benyoub 
Recently declassified documents from France have unveiled intriguing details about the geopolitical maneuvers in North Africa during the early 1960s. A document dated September 19, 1962, highlights a significant encounter between Algerian National Liberation Army (ALN) forces and Spanish military authorities in the Tindouf region. This event took place a year before the Sand War between Algeria and Morocco, offering new insights into the region's complex history.
The Encounter at Mahbes
According to the document, on September 16, 1962, a lieutenant from the ALN led a motorized patrol to the Spanish military post at Mahbes in Seguiet el-Hamra. The Algerian officer proposed establishing friendly relations with the Spanish authorities in the Tindouf sector. The proposal included regular exchanges of information about Morocco, the establishment of radio communications with a shared cipher, and joint patrols between Algerian and Spanish military units.
Historical Context
This revelation is particularly significant given the historical backdrop. Just two months after Algeria's independence in July 1962, the Tindouf region and the eastern Sahara were not yet under Algerian control. France later transferred control of these territories to Algeria. The document suggests that while Morocco was actively fighting Spanish colonial forces in Western Sahara and advocating for decolonization at the United Nations, Algeria was engaging in secretive negotiations with Spain, potentially aiming to secure a foothold in the disputed Saharan territories.
Strategic Implications
The timing of these events is crucial. They occurred before the Sand War of 1963 and even before Houari Boumediene came to power in Algeria. This raises questions about Algeria's early strategic intentions in the region, especially regarding its territorial ambitions in the Sahara. The document indicates that Algeria was keen on establishing a cooperative relationship with Spain, possibly to counterbalance Morocco's influence in the region.
Recent Statements and Historical Nuances
In a recent interview with the French newspaper Le Point, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reiterated Algeria's stance on the Sand War, accusing Morocco of aggression. However, these newly revealed documents suggest a more nuanced narrative, highlighting Algeria's early efforts to consolidate its position in the Sahara through diplomatic and military coordination with Spain.
Conclusion
This historical insight not only enriches our understanding of the region's complex past but also underscores the enduring tensions and rivalries that continue to shape North African geopolitics today. As more documents are declassified, further light may be shed on the intricate web of alliances and conflicts that have defined the Sahara's history.
