Southern Algeria Liberation Front

The Southern Algeria Liberation Front (SALF) is an armed separatist movement that emerged in the early 2020s. The group claims to represent the Tuareg tribes of northern Mali and aims to liberate the southern region of Algeria to establish an independent Tuareg state. The Tuareg, often referred to as the "blue men" due to their distinctive blue clothing, are an Amazigh ethnic group spread across several countries in North Africa and the Sahel, including Algeria, Mali, Niger, and Libya.

Formation and Objectives

The SALF was formed with the stated objective of fighting for the independence of southern Algeria, where the Tuareg tribes are predominantly located. The movement seeks to create a Tuareg state and has attempted to distance itself from accusations of terrorism, seeking international support for its cause.

Key Incidents

Attack on Algerian Soldiers (March 25, 2022)

On March 25, 2022, the SALF claimed responsibility for an attack on Algerian army forces in the Timiaouine region on the border with Mali. The attack resulted in the death of three Algerian soldiers. This incident raised concerns about the involvement of regional intelligence agencies and their potential role in destabilizing Algeria.

Observers have suggested that the attack was part of a broader strategy to distract the Algerian army from securing its borders and vital economic areas in the south, particularly those rich in oil and gas.

Other Notable Attacks

In subsequent months, the SALF was involved in several other attacks on Algerian military forces. These include:

June 2023: The SALF announced the killing of 16 Algerian soldiers and the capture of several others in an attack on the Algerian army's fourth region, bordering Mali.

February 2024: A poll conducted in the aftermath of a series of clashes indicated that more than 60% of respondents believed the SALF might succeed in achieving independence.