Algeria has officially closed its airspace to Mali, citing repeated violations, including the recent downing of a Malian reconnaissance drone that Algiers claims entered its territory on an “offensive trajectory.” The move marks a significant escalation in tensions between Algeria and the members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Algerian authorities confirmed that the drone was intercepted at the end of March, sparking a diplomatic fallout. Mali insisted the drone was operating 9.5 kilometers from the border, while Algeria deemed it a clear breach of sovereignty.
In response, Algeria recalled its ambassadors from Mali and Niger and postponed the deployment of a new envoy to Burkina Faso. The AES bloc retaliated by withdrawing their ambassadors from Algiers and accusing Algeria of obstructing joint counter-terrorism efforts.
AES officials described the drone shootdown as “irresponsible” and a violation of international law, while Algeria rejected the claims as “serious and false.” The incident underscores growing friction in the region, where fragile security alliances are increasingly under strain.
