Abstract of Nuclear Testings in Algeria
Available at:https://jerusalem.24fm.ps/3721.html
Between 1960 and 1966, the French government conducted a series of nuclear tests in parts of the Sahara, which at the time was part of French Algeria. The “Algerian Nuclear Tests,” were part of France’s secretive nuclear weapons development program. Carried out at two main sites in the Sahara Desert, namely Reggane and In Ekker, these sites have been described by French military authorities as uninhabited and devoid of flora and fauna in a bid to legitimise their activities.
During this period, a total of 17 nuclear tests were carried out. The testing involved a combination of atmospheric tests, where nuclear devices were detonated in the open air, and underground tests, where the devices were set off beneath the Earth’s surface. The consequences of these tests had, and still have far-reaching environmental and health impacts. Radioactive contamination affects the surrounding areas, causing adverse effects on both the environment and local communities. Reports indicated health issues among local residents due to radiation exposure. The tests were shrouded in secrecy, while the local population was not informed at all about the potential risks and health hazards associated with these experiments.