20/02/2009 - Update
Into Algeria - a historic crossing

After another grueling journey across Morocco today,the convoy reached the border town of Oujda,10km from the Algerian borders.

After crossing the border which have been exceptionnally open for them,they will drive through the Algerian small town of Maghnia 10 kms away.

At the exit of this town,are the famous Natural spring baths of Bouguerira. Our boys and girls could do with a good soaking but the call of GAZA is a lot more important.

Then they will take the dual carriage way towards Algeria's second city ORAN bypassing the city of EIN TIMOUCHENT. If there are no major delays with customs,they may reach Oran by lunch time for a well deserve break.

It is anticipated thet they will use the MOSTAGANEM route towards the town of CHLEF which is about a 3 hour drive from Oran.

On route towards Algiers,it all depends how late and how dark it is going to be before they stop for the night.

I anticipate they will stop either in Chlef,Blida or in the outskirt of Algiers depending on delays and breakdowns.

The Algerian authorities and civil society will be assisting the convoys during its long crossing of the country and the people of Algeria will show once again that Palestine remains in their hearts and minds.

Farid Arada
Farid is a supporters of Viva Palestina in Manchester, UK

ALGERIA OPEN ITS BORDERS WITH MOROCCO IN EXCEPTION MOVEW FOR THE PASSAGE OF THE GAZA CONVOY.

17/02/2009
Algeria and Algerians, who have always held the Palestinian cause to their heart, are waiting with great excitement for the arrival of the Gaza convoy on their soil.

The state of Palestine was 'announced' on their soil in Algiers in 1988 and Algeria's position towards the Palestinians and their legitimate rights has always been unwavering.

In fact, in Algeria, it has always been said that Algeria is 'with Palestine Guilty or not Guilty!'

Alshourouk newspaper reports that the president's special representative and Minister of State Mr A.Belkhadem, has given instructions as to the safe passage, comfort and hospitality which should be offered to the convoy from crossing its frontiers to the Tunisian borders.

Mr A.Mehri, a member of the People's Committee for the Aid to Palestine, confirmed that other vehicles may join the convoy in Algeria carrying the basic essentials and medicines to the Palestinian people.

The Algerian/Moroccan border has been closed for a number of years.The Gaza convoy will pass through, exceptionally after the Algerian authorities decision, which is in line with its historical position towards the Palestinian people.

Farid Arada
Farid is a supporters of Viva Palestina in Manchester, UK