Algeria announces it is severing diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates and closing its airspace to Emirati aircraft, citing “provocative and hostile” actions by Abu Dhabi. Algerian state media and foreign ministry statements say Algeria has exhausted efforts to preserve bilateral relations and that the UAE is no longer considered acceptable or tolerable.
The outlets broadly agree Algeria’s move follows years of strain between the two countries. Several reports cite Algerian accusations that the UAE has destabilizing involvement in regional files, including Libya, Sudan and Mali. Algeria says the UAE’s behaviour prompted Algeria to take the step of severing ties, with the UAE ambassador reportedly summoned and given a short period to comply. Sources also note that Algeria has moved against UAE-linked media accreditation connected to Sky News Arabia, which is owned by the UAE through Abu Dhabi-based International Media Investments.
Where coverage differs is in operational details. Euronews reports a ban on Emirati civilian and military flights through Algerian airspace while exempting commercial flights to Algiers until the end of 2026. Other outlets focus more on the diplomatic and political rationale and on Algeria’s wider regional disagreements with the UAE, including Western Sahara and Israel-related diplomacy. UAE officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
