Algeria to open airspace for humanitarian aid flights to earthquake-hit Morocco

Algiers: Algeria has announced the suspension of a two-year ban on flights to Morocco and will allow aircraft carrying humanitarian aid to reach earthquake-stricken areas in the disaster-struck country.

The decision comes following a powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck a mountainous region southwest of Marrakesh, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities, at least 1,200 injuries, and widespread damage.

Algeria closed its airspace to all Moroccan aircraft in September 2021 after severing diplomatic ties with its regional rival. However, in light of the recent humanitarian crisis, Algerian authorities have opted to open their airspace to flights carrying aid and injured individuals from the earthquake-stricken areas in Morocco.

The president's office stated that Algeria stands ready to provide humanitarian assistance and to mobilise all necessary resources in solidarity with the Moroccan people, as per any request made by the Kingdom of Morocco.

The Algerian foreign ministry had earlier expressed heartfelt condolences to the Moroccan people for the victims of the earthquake. This gesture reflects a rare moment of cooperation between the neighbouring North African nations despite their historical rivalry.