Algeria to Deploy Troops Abroad for First Time Since 1973
Algeria's parliament has approved the deployment of troops to Niger, marking the nation's first foreign military mission in over five decades.
Algeria is set to send troops to Niger, a move that represents the country's first foreign military deployment since it sent forces to Egypt during the Arab-Israeli war in 1973. The decision follows a visit to Algiers by Niger's defense minister, who sought support against armed groups potentially linked to al-Qaeda or the Islamic State.
The deployment aims to protect energy facilities in northern Niger, close to the Libyan border. This initiative aligns with Algeria's economic interests in Niger, including a planned gas pipeline designed to transport Nigerian gas through Niger to Algeria.
Shift in Foreign Policy
The deployment signifies a notable shift in Algeria's long-standing policy of not engaging in overseas military operations. This mission will be the first to utilize a constitutional provision enacted in 2020 that permits foreign deployments. Senators voted 148-174 in favor of the proposal during an emergency session on Sunday, with the lower house of parliament also backing the measure. The exact timing and number of soldiers to be deployed have not yet been disclosed.
"We are not sending our soldiers to wage war in Niger, but for a mission to secure economic infrastructure," stated Algerian senator Belkacem Boulghiti.
Economic Ties and Security Concerns
Algeria's state-owned energy company, Sonatrach, has also entered into an agreement with Niger's petroleum ministry to explore for oil in the Kafra region. Preliminary estimates suggest two exploration wells could contain substantial reserves.
Relations between the two neighboring countries have seen recent fluctuations. Algeria had condemned the 2023 coup that led to the ousting of Niger's elected President Mohamed Bazoum. Tensions escalated in 2025 when Algeria downed a Malian drone near its border, prompting Niger to recall its ambassador to Algiers in solidarity with Mali, a nation also under military rule.
However, diplomatic ties have improved since then. Niger's leader, Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, visited Algeria in February 2026. Later, in August of the same year, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune dispatched fighter jets to Niger to assist in suppressing a coup attempt and donated four military helicopters.