Tunisia-Algeria: Tribute to the 67th Anniversary of the Events

Tunisia and Algeria commemorated this Sunday the 67th anniversary of the Sakiet Sidi Youssef events, a tragic episode in the shared history of both nations.

Tunisian Prime Minister Kamel Madouri and Algerian Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui led the ceremony, honouring the victims of the French colonial bombing on February 8, 1958.

The ceremony took place in Sakiet Sidi Youssef, in the attendance of several members of the Tunisian and Algerian governments, the Algerian ambassador to Tunisia, and senior regional officials. It also gathered representatives from both Tunisian parliamentary chambers, civil society actors, and former national movement militants.

This tribute seeks to recall the historical solidarity between the two nations and emphasize the significance of preserving their shared memory. It acts as a reminder of a time when Tunisia provided refuge to Algerian fighters engaged in the war for independence against French colonial rule.

On February 8, 1958, the French Air Force bombed the border village of Sakiet Sidi Youssef, killing 68 people, including 12 children, as well as several Tunisians and Algerians, and injuring many others. The attack targeted fighters of the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN) and sparked international outrage, further strengthening Tunisian support for the Algerian cause.

Since then, this date has become a powerful symbol of Tunisian-Algerian friendship, underscoring their shared struggle for independence and sovereignty.

Beyond the duty of remembrance, this commemoration also serves as an opportunity to strengthen strategic relations between Tunisia and Algeria. The two prime ministers reaffirmed their commitment to continuing political, economic, and security cooperation, particularly in a regional context marked by common challenges.

The memory of the Sakiet Sidi Youssef events remains a pillar of unity between the two nations, reminding them that their solidarity is built on a history of shared struggle and sacrifice.