Algeria Battles Deadly Wildfires as President Calls for Death Penalty

TDT | Manama

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Algeria is battling a devastating wave of wildfires that has spread across several provinces, destroying forests, homes and farmland. Jijel, east of Algiers, has suffered some of the worst damage, with vast areas of forest burned.

Authorities have officially reported 12 deaths, although local accounts suggest the toll could be higher. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune declared three days of mourning and pledged compensation and support for affected families.

Tebboune blamed extreme climate conditions but also pointed to possible arson. He called for those responsible to face the death penalty and announced the lifting of Algeria's long-standing moratorium on executions, drawing criticism from human rights groups.