The Position of the Sublime Porte (the Ottoman Empire) toward the French Blockade of Algeria (1827–1830): An Organized Overview of Ottoman Diplomatic Action

Abstract

This article examines the position of the Ottoman Sublime Porte regarding the French naval blockade imposed on the Regency of Algiers between 1827 and 1830, through an analysis of the dimensions of Ottoman diplomatic action in response to French escalation, which culminated in military invasion and the fall of Algiers. The crisis began with the issue of accumulated debts owed by France to Algeria, and then escalated following the Fly Whisk incident in 1827, which France used as a pretext to impose a prolonged naval blockade on Algiers in preparation for its occupation. The article seeks to analyze the nature of the Ottoman position toward this crisis and to uncover the limits and reasons for Ottoman intervention, in light of the complex international circumstances in which the Ottoman Empire was operating, particularly its involvement in the Greek War of Independence, its conflict with Russia, and the repercussions of the Eastern Question. It also highlights the diplomatic efforts undertaken by the Sublime Porte through its envoys, such as Khalil Effendi and Tahir Pasha, to attempt to settle the dispute between France and Algiers through peaceful means, while clarifying the obstacles imposed by France to frustrate these efforts. The article concludes that the Ottoman Empire, despite recognizing its nominal sovereignty over Algiers and issuing diplomatic protests against the blockade, was unable to provide effective military support due to its internal conditions and international pressures. This situation allowed France to implement its colonial project and occupy Algeria in 1830, marking one of the most significant phases of Ottoman decline in the Islamic Maghreb.