Attempts by the Algerian National Liberation Army to Establish Bases in Libya: An Analysis of the Libyan Position (1960–1962)

Abstract

This study examines the role played by the Libyan side in the course of the Algerian Revolution by studying the experience of the Southeastern Front during the period from 1960 to 1962. This front was one of the most important desert fronts whose activities were directly connected to Libyan territory, whether in terms of launching operations, supplying resources, or maintaining communication. The study aims to analyze the Libyan position toward the activities of the Algerian National Liberation Army and to identify the factors that influenced this position during the early years of Libya’s independence, in light of developments in the Algerian Revolution and the regional and international circumstances that affected the formulation of Libyan policy toward these activities. The study adopts a historical-analytical approach, supported by oral testimonies from the Mujahideen, to examine the nature of Libyan interaction with this front. It highlights the differences between the provinces of Tripolitania and Fezzan, as well as the role of local communities in facilitating or hindering the activities of the Algerian National Liberation Army. The study concludes that Libya constituted a vital strategic depth for the Algerian Revolution. Despite the official reservations that characterized the position of some authorities, these reservations were closely related to the nature of the circumstances Libya was experiencing at the time, as well as to the political and diplomatic challenges surrounding it.