Algerian influencer Maïva Ghannam posted a video mentioning that she was denied a visa to enter Algeria due to her visit to Israel. In the emotional video, she pleaded for permission to return to her country, expressing that she cannot live away from her family. Maïva, who has 3.4 million followers on TikTok and 3.2 million on Instagram, revealed that she submitted four visa applications to return to Algeria, as she holds dual citizenship, but her requests were rejected due to her visit to Israel.
She stated that she didn't believe her trip to Israel would lead to her ban from entering Algeria, noting that "a friend convinced her to visit Israel." Activists shared videos of her dancing with Israelis at what they described as a "debauched party," with one commenter saying, "Your submission to the entity ends when you know what Algeria means."
Maïva posted multiple videos expressing her sadness over being barred from entering her home country, stating, "My life's mistake is that I went there. I now wonder: if I die, where will I be buried? I don't want to be buried in France; will they accept burying me in Algeria?"
Her videos sparked significant interaction on social media, with many considering the Algerian authorities' decision to prevent her from entering the country as expected due to the severed relations between the two parties. One commenter noted, "It is very normal for Algeria to be cautious about your entry, just like the United States or European countries with individuals who visit hostile nations." Another added, "Maybe you should wait some time until the Algerian authorities are sure that your visit to Israel was not for political reasons."
On the other hand, some felt it was unfair to ban her from entering her country, regardless of the reason, stating, "People should not be treated like we are abroad; one must be accused of something to be prevented from entering their country." Maïva shares travel content on social media, where she moves between countries and documents her daily experiences and the various places she visits.
