Algeria on the Brink… Signs of Collapse Within the Military Regime and Growing Talk of a Possible Coup

By Iman Alaoui/ Aldar

Algeria is currently experiencing unprecedented turmoil at the top of its power structure, amid escalating tensions that could trigger an internal explosion capable of reshaping the entire political landscape. Reports circulating behind the scenes suggest that the ruling regime, led by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Army Chief of Staff Saïd Chengriha, is going through a critical and uncertain phase — one that many describe as “the calm before the storm.” Growing doubts are emerging even within the military establishment about the future of the current leadership.

Intersecting French and American sources, cited by several Western media outlets in recent weeks, indicate a noticeable decline in international confidence in the Algerian regime, particularly after a series of erratic foreign policy moves. Russia, once a traditional ally of Algiers, is reportedly adopting a cooler attitude toward its partner after Algeria failed to honor several arms and investment agreements it had previously committed to. Meanwhile, Washington and Paris accuse the Algerian military regime of aligning with actors hostile to their interests in Africa — a stance that has left the country in unprecedented diplomatic isolation.

At the same time, senior figures within the military are said to be under mounting internal strain. Security and media circles close to the opposition speak of deep divisions among army factions — some defending the continuation of Chengriha and Tebboune, while others argue that their leadership has become untenable in light of rising public anger and worsening economic and social conditions.

This charged atmosphere has fueled growing speculation about a potential “internal military coup” that could reshuffle power dynamics and bring an end to the rule of the “clique of generals” who have maintained a tight grip on the country for decades.

Algeria, which has long relied on oil and gas revenues to rescue its faltering economy, now finds itself facing a multi-dimensional crisis: a collapse of public trust, deep international isolation, and confusion at the highest levels of the army. With mounting U.S. and French pressure over the Moroccan Sahara issue and the political deadlock at home, the regime appears increasingly exposed and devoid of real allies.

All these indicators suggest that the coming weeks could prove decisive in Algeria’s modern history. The country may either witness an internal shake-up to salvage what remains of the system — or continue down a slow path of disintegration that could culminate in an uncontrollable explosion, bringing an end to the era of the “kabarans” who have exhausted Algeria for decades.

Will army officers intervene this time to “save Algeria from its own regime”?
Or will fear and internal power balances keep everyone on the sidelines until catastrophe strikes?
A question that remains open in a nation teetering on the edge of political and military collapse.