Algeria has suspended all flights to and from Mali after accusing the West African country of repeatedly violating its airspace, the state television announced on Sunday. The move marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the two neighbours.
The Algerian government said the decision was made in response to a series of incidents involving Malian aircraft allegedly entering Algerian airspace without authorisation. Authorities described the airspace violations as unacceptable and framed the flight ban as necessary to protect Algeria’s sovereignty and security.
Mali, which has been grappling with years of instability and security threats, has yet to issue an official response to Algeria’s decision. The flight ban adds another layer of strain to the already fragile diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
Analysts warn that the suspension of flights could disrupt regional travel and trade, with potential economic consequences for both nations. Algeria and Mali are both significant players in West Africa, and their growing tensions are likely to draw close attention from neighbouring governments and regional bodies.
