la bataille de Ouled Aïssa, une épopée héroïque durant la glorieuse Guerre de libération nationale
The Battle of Ouled Aïssa: A Key Moment in Algeria’s Liberation War
On April 11, 1961, the Battle of Ouled Aïssa unfolded in the Mascara region, marking a significant event in Algeria’s Liberation War against French colonial rule. This battle is remembered for the extraordinary courage displayed by the Algerian resistance fighters, known as the Moudjahidine, who inflicted substantial losses on the French colonial forces.
Context of the Battle
The clash occurred in Zone 6 of the historical Wilaya V, specifically near Ouled Aïssa in the Ghriss municipality. The French army had initiated a sweeping operation to encircle the Algerian National Liberation Army (ALN) within the Ghriss plain. However, the Moudjahidine from the battalion led by the martyr Ghouti Mohamed successfully thwarted the French military’s plans despite facing overwhelming odds, including air support from the French forces.
The Battle Dynamics
The confrontation lasted approximately ten hours and showcased the tactical prowess and bravery of the Moudjahidine. Reports indicate that as the fighting escalated, the French troops were forced to retreat about 500 meters from the battalion’s positions. This withdrawal allowed the Moudjahidine to maintain their defensive stance and even relocate to a more covert position approximately 3 kilometers away from the fighting zone.
Losses and Sacrifices
The battle resulted in heavy casualties for the French army, including significant loss of life among its soldiers and damage to military equipment. Among those who fell during the fight was Commander Ghouti Mohamed, honorably known as "Ould El Bouanani," along with fellow Moudjahidine Cheddad El-Djilali, Saïd Ali, and the battalion nurse, Benslimane Saâdia. Their sacrifices are emblematic of the heroic struggle faced by many during the liberation efforts.
Military Context and Historical Significance
Professor Lahcen Djaker, a historian of modern and contemporary Algeria at the Mustapha Stambouli University in Mascara, affirms the significance of the Battle of Ouled Aïssa within the broader context of the Algerian War. This battle not only contributed to disrupting the French military campaign against the ALN but also highlighted the strategic military competencies of the Algerian commanders. It exemplified the robust political and military organization that characterized the ALN throughout the liberation struggle.
Djaker emphasizes the necessity of recognizing and documenting such critical historical events accurately. He advocates for creating accessible audiovisual resources that can help scholars and interested parties gain a deeper understanding of the struggle for independence in Algeria.
Conclusion
The Battle of Ouled Aïssa stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Algerian people in their fight against colonial oppression. The narrative of this battle embodies the bravery of the Moudjahidine, whose sacrifices played a pivotal role in altering the course of Algeria’s history. In remembering these events, it is vital to preserve the legacy of those who fought for freedom, ensuring that their stories continue to inspire future generations.
