Jan 8, 2026

Flashpoints: How Emirati and Qatari Competition Is Redrawing the Red Sea Map$

Analysis by The North Africa Journal

A low-profile but consequential rivalry between the United Arab Emirates and Qatar is reshaping access to the Red Sea. Through competing alliances, port investments, and security partnerships, both Gulf states are extending their influence across the Horn of Africa. At the center of this struggle lies Somaliland, whose strategic coastline, port infrastructure, and political status have become critical factors in a broader contest involving regional and extra-regional powers.

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Security: Hackers Publish Names Tied to Morocco’s Police and Intelligence Services$

by The North Africa Journal | Aug 28, 2026 | security upfront, Shield and Alert: Maghreb, 111, 1PREMIUM, Briefs, Morocco, Security & Defense, 1shorts, Maghreb, Security

Hackers operating as Jabaroot published four spreadsheets naming more than 70,000 alleged members of Morocco’s police and intelligence directorates, branding the release around the July 30 Ceuta border breach. European services reviewing the files consider the names genuine but dated, and accounts of their origin conflict sharply. Rabat has not responded, leaving the hackers’ framing to circulate unchallenged in Madrid and Brussels.

Algeria-France Trade Drops 23% with Import and Energy Curbs$

by The North Africa Journal | Aug 10, 2026 | Algeria, Briefs, Business & Economy, 1shorts, Maghreb, Economy & Business, economy upfront, Business and Economy, 111, 1PREMIUM

Trade between Algeria and France fell by roughly 23% in the year ending June 2026, dropping below €9 billion as import controls and political tensions reshape the relationship. Algeria’s tighter oversight of foreign purchases has sharply reduced French exports—particularly in food, automotive equipment, and industrial goods—while energy-driven exports to France also declined. The figures point to a broader shift as Algeria diversifies suppliers and reduces reliance on its former primary trading partner.

Morocco Faces Balancing Test Over Potential Gaza Security Role$

by The North Africa Journal | Aug 10, 2026 | 111, Briefs, 1PREMIUM, Morocco, 1breaking, Security & Defense, 1shorts, Maghreb, International politics, Politics, Security, security upfront, Shield and Alert: Maghreb

A reported plan for a Moroccan military outpost in Gaza is raising questions about Rabat’s regional strategy. While participation in a multinational stabilization force could be framed as humanitarian and security support, a visible troop presence inside an Israeli-controlled area risks political backlash at home and abroad. The proposal highlights the tension between Morocco’s ties to Israel and its longstanding positioning as a supporter of Palestinian interests.

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