The Algerian Foreign ministry announced on Thursday (Sep. 26) the reintroduction with immediate effect of a visa for holders of a Moroccan passport.

The ministry notably cites “destabilization actions” and the organization of “human and drug-trafficking, espionage and the deployment of Zionist agents.”

The end of the visa exemption regime for Moroccans is the latest proof of degrading relations between the neighbour countries.

The nations broke off diplomatic ties in 2021. Algiers said it didn’t impose a visa back then because it sought to uphold “its values of solidarity given the family ties that unite two brother peoples.”

The main bone of contention is Morocco’s stance on Western Sahara, and its policy to make its autonomy plan gain support. Algeria continues to back the Polisario Front, the political party which seeks to obtain the recognition of the Sahraoui people’s right to self-determination.