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Algeria Opens Airspace for Humanitarian Flights to Morocco Following Earthquake

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Algeria has taken the exceptional step of temporarily opening its airspace to facilitate humanitarian flights to Morocco following a catastrophic earthquake that has shaken the region. This act of solidarity comes at a time when diplomatic relations between the two neighboring countries have been strained for the past two years.

The earthquake, tragically the deadliest in Morocco since 1960, has elicited condolences and offers of assistance from across the globe. However, it is Algeria’s unanticipated decision to set aside political differences and provide aid that shines as a symbol of unity.

The border between Algeria and Morocco, two influential nations in the region, has remained closed since 1994. In 2021, Algiers took the drastic measure of suspending diplomatic relations with Rabat, citing Morocco’s alleged involvement in “hostile acts,” especially concerning the contested territory of Western Sahara.

One contentious issue in this complex relationship has been the attempts by Royal Air Maroc (RAM) to reintroduce flights between Casablanca and Algiers. The airline had initially planned to restart this route but was compelled to postpone it multiple times due to various factors, including the long-standing Western Sahara conflict.

Originally scheduled for September 2, 2023, RAM had to defer the resumption of flights between Casablanca and Algiers to October 30, 2023. These recurring delays had left travelers frustrated, as RAM had initially aimed to relaunch the route in July 2023 before encountering further setbacks.

Despite these challenges, Algeria’s presidency has made an announcement  opening its airspace exclusively for humanitarian and medical flights, underscoring the urgency of addressing immediate humanitarian needs. The Algerian Foreign Ministry has also affirmed its readiness to respond promptly to any requests for aid from Morocco, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to assisting its neighbor during this period of crisis.

The earthquake’s devastating impact, with over 1,000 confirmed casualties by Saturday afternoon, has prompted condolences and offers of support from around the world.

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