Algeria: U.S. Drone Dispute Underscores Tensions

Algeria's recent presidential election granted a fourth term to President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika, giving the political establishment additional time to implement constitutional changes as well as political and economic reforms. The president and his allies hope to foster a civilian state that can check the power of the military and security forces. Whether under civilian or military rule, however, security concerns will continue to play a key role in Algerian politics. This fact is underscored by a recent disagreement between Algiers and Washington over the sale of armed unmanned aerial vehicles, known colloquially as drones, and associated technology.

Algeria and the United States share concerns about regional militancy and view drones as useful tools in the fight against terrorism. However, deep divisions remain between the two on who will oversee technology and operations. As the United States tries to improve indigenous counterterrorism capabilities region-wide, this dispute highlights a major challenge: One of its most capable potential partners continues to pursue its own prerogatives, to the detriment of U.S. strategy. In accordance with Algeria's geopolitical imperatives, the country will continue to reject foreign oversight over domestic decision-making and oppose expanded Western influence in its strategic periphery.