Relations between Algiers and Ankara have reportedly become strained against the backdrop of meetings between representatives of the Turkish authorities and members of the Rachad Movement.

The Algerian authorities classify the Rachad movement as an extremist group that threatens national security.

Informed sources told Algerian newspaper el-Khabar that the meetings were held on two occasions in Istanbul and Antalya during which the two sides discussed means of supporting the organization to empower it in Algeria.

The newspaper reported that Algerian authorities became aware of the meeting, which is expected to lead to tensions between the two countries.

The sources also indicated that the Turkish regime, under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, might have decided to add Algeria to its list as a new target in North Africa, and wants to mobilize the sleeper cells of this organization.

Turkey is trying to remotely intervene in the internal affairs of Algeria and destabilize the nation, according to the sources.

The sources said the hosting of Rachad members is a provocation, which will suspend the relations between the two countries, especially at a time when leaks indicate Algeria is trying to put the movement on its list of terrorist organizations.

However, all indications suggest that bilateral relations between Algeria and Ankara have become exemplary in political consultation, security coordination, and cooperation, which includes several strategic fields.

Earlier this month, the High-Security Council, chaired by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, warned of “subversive activities” by “illegal movements close to terrorism … exploiting weekly [Hirak] marches.”

The Council condemned “separatist circles” in reference to the Rachad movement and another group seeking independence for the Kabyle region.

Tebboune stressed that the state will not tolerate these deviations, which are not linked to democracy and human rights in any way, demanding the “immediate and rigorous application of the law” to end such activities.

“The state will be intransigent,” warned Tebboune.