Mauritania has undertaken a significant military reorganization that signals a strategic distancing from Algeria. This reshuffle occurs in the context of strengthening ties between Nouakchott and Rabat and, notably, resisting Algerian attempts to interfere in regional affairs.
On December 23, 2024, Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani carried out a radical reorganization of the country’s military and security hierarchy, appointing General Mohamed Vall Ould Raïs as the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. He succeeds Lieutenant General Mokhtar Bella Chaabane, who is now retired. Analysts view this change as pivotal, not only for its strategic implications but also for the regional dynamics it brings into play.
General Ould Raïs, formerly the Deputy Chief of Staff, assumes command of the Mauritanian army during a period marked by Algeria’s setbacks on the regional stage and rising tensions. Recent Algerian military incursions, reportedly advancing up to 90 kilometers into Mauritanian territory, were among the triggers for these adjustments. These actions coincided with President Ould Ghazouani’s unofficial visit to Morocco, highlighting new prospects for cooperation between Rabat and Nouakchott and eliciting nervous reactions from Algiers.
Strategic Reorientation
The decision to reorganize Mauritania’s high military commands, particularly in external intelligence and border control, aligns with the country’s goal of bolstering internal stability in the face of external pressures. Nouakchott seeks to consolidate its sovereignty while modernizing its security apparatus to counter potential threats from neighboring countries.
The appointment of General Sidou Samba Dia as head of external intelligence is a clear indication of Mauritania’s intention to guard against Algerian interference. According to Mahmoud Ould Talba, president of the Mauritanian Popular Front, “Algeria created the Polisario to satisfy its ambitions for access to the Atlantic Ocean.” This statement directly points to Algeria’s attempts to extend its influence by supporting Sahrawi separatists, often at the expense of regional relations.
Mauritania’s military reorganization represents an active form of resistance to Algeria’s maneuvers. The appointment of new leaders in strategic sectors aims to prevent destabilization and safeguard national interests. Furthermore, this reshuffle takes place as Mauritania seeks to assert its role in a new regional bloc, the “3 3” alliance (Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal/Portugal, Spain, France), from which Algeria is excluded.
Strengthening Mauritania-Morocco Ties
Relations between Morocco and Mauritania have significantly improved in recent years, with the two countries multiplying cooperative initiatives. Morocco’s expertise, particularly in security and infrastructure, plays a pivotal role in enhancing Mauritania’s defense capabilities. Strategic joint projects, such as the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline and the Atlantic port of Dakhla, are part of this cooperative dynamic, driven by shared economic and security interests.
Mauritanian parliamentarian Zainab bint El Teqi expressed enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, “Relations with Morocco are productive, fruitful, and promising, and cannot be undermined by the machinations of certain rebel forces.” For El Teqi and many other influential political and economic actors in Mauritania, strengthening ties with Morocco is of paramount strategic importance.
Addressing Sahel Challenges and Algerian Aggression
Mauritania’s military reshuffle extends beyond internal adjustments, addressing growing security challenges, particularly in the Sahel region. The threats posed by armed groups, instability in Mali, and the spread of terrorism in the region necessitate enhanced defense measures, especially along vulnerable borders. By appointing experienced leaders in regional security management, such as Colonel Mohamed El-Amin Mohamed Ablal to lead the Sahel Defense College, Nouakchott reaffirms its commitment to reinforced security coordination within the Sahel.
The Algerian aggression at Mauritania’s borders underscores the need for heightened vigilance. Mauritanian media outlet Anbaa Info strongly criticized Algeria’s incursion, dismissing its claims of confusion between gold prospectors and terrorists as absurd excuses for violating Mauritania’s sovereignty.
A Calculated Resistance
Mauritania’s military reshuffle and its bolstered partnership with Morocco reflect a calculated resistance to external pressures, particularly from Algeria. By prioritizing strategic alliances and regional security, Mauritania aims to assert its sovereignty and play a key role in fostering stability and cooperation in West Africa.
