Colonel Gaddafi will not be given safe haven in Algeria

Gaddafi will be handed over to ICC if he attempts to enter Algeria

Colonel Gaddafi will not be given a safe haven in Algeria if he attempts to join family members there who have been given leave to stay on humanitarian grounds. Algeria is well aware of the international condemnation and security problems it may encounter through allowing Gaddafi's wife and children to cross over the border. Unlike Gaddafi though, his family members in Algeria are not subject to arrest warrants from the ICC.

According to Press TV, Algerian foreign minister Mourad Medelci says that if Gaddafi does come knocking at the Algerian door he will not be granted entry.  "The hypothesis that Gaddafi could knock our door was never considered," said Medelci.

Meldelci also added that Algeria, which has so far refused to accept the legitimacy of the Libyan rebel National Transitional Council, may be willing to do so if a government is formed that represents all regions of Libya.

Algeria has particular worries regarding Islamists, and worked in co-operation with Gaddafi to suppress the terrorist threat, which is particularly strong in the border region of the two countries.

Reuters reports that an Algerian government source told them "We want to be certain that the new rulers in Libya are involved in the fight against al Qaeda in our region -- this is key for good relations."

Algerian lawyer Saad Djebbar considers that if Algeria did allow Gaddafi in, it would not be a popular move within the country, predicting "Maybe riots will take place. Maybe people will really use it as an excuse to protest." However, President Bouteflika's intent is not to allow Gaddafi sanctuary, but to abide by international regulations.

According to Xinhaunet, if Gaddafi does attempt to enter Algeria he will be handed over to the International Criminal Court.