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A cultural conference meant to celebrate Algerian-Lebanese ties took a dramatic turn on September 23 when Algeria’s ambassador to Lebanon, Kamel Bouchama, launched into a controversial and inflammatory speech that included personal insults directed at US President Donald Trump.
The remarks, widely condemned as undiplomatic and inappropriate, have triggered embarrassment in Beirut, concern in Washington, and a wave of criticism over Algeria’s diplomatic conduct.
Speaking at the event titled “Lebanon and Algeria: Radiant History and Bright Present,” Bouchama veered off-script during a lengthy address that praised Algeria’s revolutionary legacy.
He claimed the number of Algerian martyrs during the war of independence had reached 20 million! But it was his comments on Gaza and US foreign policy that drew the most attention.
Referring to Trump as a “madman,” “imbecile,” and “cowboy who belongs in a psychiatric hospital,” Bouchama’s remarks stunned attendees and overshadowed the conference’s original purpose.
His speech, described by observers as erratic and inflammatory, has raised serious questions about Algeria’s diplomatic posture and its impact on international relations.
The Lebanese government has yet to issue an official response, but sources close to the Foreign Ministry expressed discomfort over the incident, noting that such language from a foreign envoy is “unprecedented and deeply troubling.” The U.S. Embassy in Beirut declined to comment, though diplomatic analysts suggest Washington is unlikely to ignore the affront.
In Washington, Algeria’s ambassador Sabri Boukadoum now faces the delicate task of damage control. Observers speculate that Algerian officials may attempt to mitigate the incident through media outreach or behind-the-scenes diplomacy.
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