Algeria Closes Airspace to Mali Amid Repeated Violations and Tensions

On Monday, April 7, 2025, Algeria announced the closure of its airspace to all flights to and from Mali, following multiple violations of its airspace by Mali. This decision, effective immediately, was confirmed by Algeria’s Ministry of National Defense.

The decision comes amid escalating tensions between the two countries, particularly after the shooting down of a Malian drone by Algeria’s Territorial Air Defense Forces. Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement rejecting accusations from Mali’s transitional government and the Union of Sahelian States, describing the claims as “desperate” attempts to deflect attention from Mali’s internal instability and security failures.

Algeria’s response also highlights that this is not the first airspace violation by Mali. The Ministry of National Defense detailed two previous drone incursions in 2024 and another in March 2025, providing radar images to back its claims.

The government further expressed regret over the alignment of Niger and Burkina Faso with Mali’s claims, reiterating its stance on defending national sovereignty and security. Additionally, Algeria recalled its ambassadors from Mali and Niger and postponed the assumption of its new ambassador’s duties in Burkina Faso.

The diplomatic fallout over airspace violations underscores the ongoing tensions between Algeria and Mali, with the latter’s accusations intensifying the already volatile situation. Algeria remains firm in its position, emphasizing its commitment to national security and rejecting any baseless allegations from the Mali government.