Algerian President’s Statements on Gaza Spark Controversy in Israeli Media

Statements made by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is a candidate in the upcoming presidential elections on September 7, have sparked widespread reactions in Israeli and Arab media circles. The statements revolved around the readiness of the Algerian army to enter the Gaza Strip if the borders with Egypt were opened.

Israeli Reactions:

• The Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth described Tebboune’s statements as a “threat to Israel,” noting that they sparked wide debate in the Arab world and Israel.
• Political analyst Lior Ben Ari stated that Tel Aviv considered Tebboune’s words a direct threat, leading to mixed reactions on social media in Israel and Arab countries.

Details of Tebboune’s Statements:

During an election rally in the Constantine province, President Tebboune stated:

• “The Algerian army is fully prepared and ready to enter Gaza if the borders were open.”
• He promised to establish three hospitals within 20 days and send hundreds of doctors to the sector.
• He affirmed Algeria’s readiness to help rebuild what was damaged in Gaza.

Political Context:

These statements were made in the context of President Tebboune’s election campaign, as he seeks a new presidential term in the elections scheduled for September 7.

The Israeli reactions reflect the sensitivity of the situation in Gaza and its impact on regional relations. They also highlight how the Palestinian issue is used in the internal political discourse of Arab countries.

It remains important to follow the repercussions of these statements on diplomatic relations in the region, especially amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza.