馃嚛馃嚳AlgeriaNorth Africa
Algerian Sahara Blend crude oil records highest value increase among Arab crudes in first half of 2026
via Alg茅rie3603 min read
Algeria's Sahara Blend crude oil saw the largest value increase among Arab crudes in the first half of 2026. Its price rose by $23.91 per barrel, reaching an average of $96.04, marking a more than 33% growth compared to the same period in 2025. This surge is part of a general upward trend for Arab oils, with the OPEC basket's average price increasing by 30% to $93.67 per barrel from $72.04 a year prior. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the Iranian war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, contributed to this price hike by raising concerns about supply disruptions. The Sahara Blend remains one of the most valued crudes in the region, closely trailing Saudi Light, which was the most expensive at an average of $96.88 per barrel. Other regional crudes also showed strong performance: Kuwait Export increased by 30.42% to $95.13 per barrel, and Iraqi Basrah Medium rose by 31.07% to $93.57. Libyan Es Sider recorded the second-highest value increase of $23.8, with the highest relative growth in the region at 33.7%, reaching $94.47 per barrel. In contrast, Emirati Murban had the most moderate increase of 23.81%, settling at $89.06 per barrel. Despite this strong half-year, June 2026 saw a general decline in prices. Algerian Sahara Blend fell to $87.27 per barrel in June. Saudi Light remained the most expensive Arab crude in June at $96.89 per barrel, followed by Kuwait Export at $92.28, Libyan Es Sider at $86.47, Iraqi Basrah Medium at $85.1, and Emirati Murban at
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Must ReadAlgeria's Ministry of National Defense announced the dismantling of a criminal cell affiliated with the separatist MAK movement, classified as a terrorist organization by Algerian authorities. The operation, conducted by army security services in Tizi Ouzou, resulted in six arrests, including four Moroccan nationals who were illegally present in Algeria. According to the Ministry, the group was active during the legislative elections, aiming to disrupt the process and prevent citizen participation. The operation was based on intelligence work, which allowed for the prior identification of all network members before their simultaneous arrest. The Ministry highlighted this as an example of security forces' ability to counter criminal plans and destabilizing threats. The presence of Moroccan nationals in the cell was noted, though no further details were provided on their entry into the territory or specific roles. This operation is part of a broader effort by the Algerian National People's Army against subversive and criminal networks, with numerous arrests and operations reported throughout the year against terrorist support elements and cross-border criminal organizations.
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