May 4, 2026

Libya: A drifting Russian gas tanker threatens the Mediterranean$

Analysis by The North Africa Journal

Since March 3, 2026, the Russian LNG tanker Arctic Metagaz, 277 meters long, has been drifting off the Libyan coast. Loaded with 62,000 tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG), 900 tons of diesel, and 450 tons of heavy fuel oil, it poses the risk of an environmental disaster for the Mediterranean basin. Amid repeated failures to tow the vessel, accusations of Ukrainian sabotage, and the powerlessness of Libyan authorities, the Mediterranean is on high alert.

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Middle East Descends Deeper into Chaos and New Flashpoints Emerge$

by The North Africa Journal | Jun 3, 2026 | Briefs, Politics, 1shorts, International, 111, International News, 1PREMIUM

The Middle East enters June 2026 facing a convergence of crises. Iran and the United States continue exchanging military strikes, Israeli forces are expanding operations in Lebanon and tensions surrounding Jerusalem’s holy sites are rising.

Morocco Becomes Africa’s Top-Ranked Industrial Economy$

by The North Africa Journal | May 31, 2026 | 1-BLUE-LEFT-SECTION-Special-Focus-Free, Briefs, Business & Economy, Morocco, 1 Up Front, 1shorts, Maghreb, Economy & Business, economy upfront, Business and Economy, 1PREMIUM

Morocco has become Africa’s leading industrial economy, followed by South Africa and Egypt. The African Development Bank (AfDB) ranked Tunisia fourth, reinforcing North Africa’s position as one of the continent’s principal industrial regions. The AfDB’s 2025 Africa Industrialization Index placed Morocco ahead of South Africa as Africa’s highest-ranked industrial economy.

Algerian Gas Exports to Europe Rise for Fourth Consecutive Month$

by The North Africa Journal | May 30, 2026 | Algeria, Briefs, Business & Economy, 1shorts, Maghreb, Economy & Business, economy upfront, Business and Economy, 111, 1PREMIUM

Algeria continued to expand natural gas exports to Europe during the first four months of 2026, benefiting from steady pipeline deliveries to key markets including Spain and Italy. While Europe’s gas market continues shifting toward LNG imports, Algeria has maintained its position as one of the continent’s leading pipeline suppliers through a combination of established infrastructure, long-term contracts, and growing LNG activity.

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