US engages Algeria on energy as Sahara stance holds firm

A US diplomatic push in North Africa is putting Algeria’s economic and security ties with Washington under scrutiny, while leaving its position on Sahara largely unchanged.

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf met US Deputy Assistant Secretary Christopher Landau in Algiers this week as part of a regional tour that includes Morocco. Talks focused on energy, investment and regional security, alongside the Sahara, according to official statements.

The visit reflects a broader US effort to balance economic engagement with Algeria against its established strategic alignment with Morocco, particularly on Sahara, where Washington continues to back Rabat’s autonomy plan.

Algeria is trying to position its energy and mineral resources as leverage in that relationship. Officials highlighted cooperation in hydrocarbons, mining and investment, signaling a push to attract US companies and strengthen economic ties.

“Algeria is moving from diplomatic resistance to pragmatic outreach,” said Zakaria Aknouch, a political anthropology researcher, pointing to efforts to draw US interest through critical minerals and industrial cooperation.

But Washington’s approach remains transactional, with the US is seeking access to resources and supply chains while maintaining its political stance on Sahara and its broader security partnership with Morocco, analysts say.

Landau’s visit comes amid rising instability in the Sahel, with discussions covering counterterrorism and intelligence coordination. The presence of AFRICOM officials underscores the military dimension of US engagement in the region.

At the same time, diplomatic efforts continue around the UN-led political process on Sahara, with Washington pushing for renewed talks between Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Polisario Front.

Despite increased US engagement with Algiers, analysts say the core balance is unlikely to shift. Morocco remains a key partner for Washington in the Atlantic and Mediterranean space, while cooperation with Algeria is expected to stay focused on energy, security and investment.

The result is a dual track policy: economic outreach to Algeria, alongside continued political backing for Morocco on one of the region’s most sensitive disputes.