- Algeria rejects Spain’s request to reopen the Maghreb pipeline.
- Morocco strengthens its energy diversification and expands renewable capacity.
The long-running tensions between Algiers and Madrid have deepened again, and the Maghreb pipeline dispute continues to shape regional energy politics. Algeria has again refused Spain’s request to reopen the Maghreb gas pipeline. Since the pipeline once served as a vital transit route to Europe, the decision carries significant strategic weight. This refusal also highlights the persistence of the Maghreb pipeline dispute, which has remained unresolved since 2021.
Algeria closed the pipeline after Spain endorsed Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara. Because Algiers strongly opposes the plan, the decision created a sharp diplomatic rift. Officials in Algiers argue that Spain’s stance undermines Algeria’s regional strategy. Therefore, they insist that the pipeline will not reopen under current conditions.
Spanish outlet Okdiario reported that several European countries support Spain’s request. European governments are seeking alternative gas routes to diversify their supply. However, Algeria dismissed these efforts, labelling them “useless attempts.” Officials maintain that they will not reconsider their stance as long as Spain maintains its pro-Moroccan position.
The pipeline once carried Algerian gas through Morocco to the port of Tarifa. Its closure formed part of Algeria’s wider response to Spain’s sudden shift towards Morocco. Since then, Algeria has pursued diplomatic and economic measures to pressure Madrid. It even suspended its friendship treaty with Spain in 2022.
Algeria supports the Polisario Front and views Morocco’s territorial claims as illegitimate. Due to this distrust, energy cooperation has remained stagnant. Spain’s increased gas exports to Morocco illustrate the shift in regional dynamics. Recent figures show Morocco now ranks as Spain’s second-largest gas export destination. In June, Morocco imported 858 GWh from Spain, far ahead of France’s 354 GWh.
This pattern reflects 2024 data, when Morocco surpassed France in total annual imports. As a result, Spain has become a crucial bridge in Morocco’s energy diversification strategy. Morocco is also expanding renewable energy to reduce import dependence. Renewable sources now provide over 45% of its electricity. The country expects this share to reach 52% before 2030.
Energy analysts say the disputes will persist unless diplomatic positions shift. Since energy security remains a priority for all parties, the stalemate could significantly impact North African gas flows for years.