Algeria: Spanish government issues travel warning for Sahara region December 2

Event

On Monday, December 2, the Spanish government issued a warning against travel to the Sahrawi refugee camps in Tindouf, in the southwest of the country, due to the risk of a terrorist attack. The government stated that an attack against Spanish citizens and interests in the area was "in an advanced state of preparation." It has reassured that the warning was issued based on threats analyzed by reliable sources and intelligence. Experts also state that Spanish citizens may be seen as a target, as jihadists identify Spain as an enemy.

Context

Spaniards regularly travel to the Sahrawi refugee camps through volunteer program called Vacation in Peace in July and August, and again over the December holidays.

Advice

Individuals in the Sahara region are advised to remain vigilant at all times, especially in areas deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack, monitor the situation and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.