This article needs more links to other articles to help integrate it into the encyclopedia. Please help improve this article by adding links that are relevant to the context within the existing text. (July 2024) ( Learn how and when to remove this message)

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. ^{[1] [2] [3]} 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. ^{[4] [5] [6]}

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. ^{[7] [8] [9]}

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. ^[10]

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. ^[11]

- **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.

Public opinion in Algeria is divided regarding the SALF's potential for achieving its goals. A poll conducted by a local newspaper revealed that a significant portion of the population believes the SALF could succeed in establishing an independent state in southern Algeria. The Algerian government has consistently denied the legitimacy of the SALF and condemned its actions as terrorist activities. The Algerian Ministry of Defense has reinforced military presence along the border with Mali to counter the threat posed by the SALF and other armed groups.

Experts in international relations and security affairs have not ruled out the involvement of regional intelligence agencies in supporting the SALF. Professor Mabrouk Kahi suggested that external actors might be using the SALF to destabilize Algeria. Similarly, researcher Amar Sigha accused international intelligence agencies of backing separatist movements to weaken Algeria's geopolitical position.

The Southern Algeria Liberation Front represents a significant challenge to Algeria's territorial integrity and regional stability. Its actions and the complex interplay of local, regional, and international factors underscore the volatile situation in the Sahel region. The Algerian government continues to face considerable challenges in addressing the threat posed by the SALF and maintaining security along its southern borders.