Algeria has recalled its ambassador to Tunisia for consultations following a broadcast by Tunisian television channel El Hiwar Ettounsi, which aired a weather map depicting Western Sahara as part of Morocco. The incident, which occurred on June 12, 2026, has sparked a diplomatic row between the two North African neighbors.
The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the broadcast as a violation of international law and UN resolutions regarding the disputed territory. Algeria supports the Polisario Front's claim for an independent Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, while Morocco considers Western Sahara its southern provinces.
In response, the Tunisian channel apologized, stating the map was a technical error and that it respects Algeria's position. However, Algerian officials deemed the apology insufficient, leading to the ambassador's recall. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over the Western Sahara issue, which has been a source of conflict since Spain withdrew in 1975.
As of June 14, 2026, the situation remains unresolved, with Algeria demanding a formal commitment from Tunisian authorities to prevent future incidents. The recall is a rare diplomatic move between the two countries, which have historically maintained cordial relations.
