Algeria denies reports that it is selling gas to Israel

The Algerian oil company Sonatrack denied reports that it is involved in negotiations with Israel to sell Algerian gas via an Australian company producing gas in Algeria.

A spokesman for the company said today in a press statement that Algeria commits itself to conducting its political and economic policy in compliance with its national stances, which have always supported the Palestinians.

The company's spokesman added that such information aims at undermining Algeria's Arab identity and belongings.

Meanwhile, Algerian security forces killed 14 gunmen from the Armed Islamic Group. This was during mopping-up operations in Bu Taleb mountains, south of Steif province and in al-Jalfah province.

The Algerian daily al-Assid reported that Algerian security forces carried out the mopping up operation according to information provided by two Armed Islamic Group members who had earlier surrendered.