Saharistan

## Introduction

Saharistan is a sovereign nation located in North Africa, bordered by several neighboring countries to the east, west, and south. The country has a rich history and diverse culture, with influences from Berber, Arab, and other ethnic groups. Despite its potential, Saharistan has been plagued by political instability, violence, and poverty in recent years. The country is home to several insurgent groups, including the Free Saharan Liberation Front (FSLF), which seek to overthrow the government and establish a new order based on justice and equality. Natural resources such as minerals and agricultural products are abundant, but corruption and a lack of investment in infrastructure have hindered economic development.

Saharistan Map

## History

### Pre-colonial history

The region that is now Saharistan has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The area was inhabited by various Berber and Arab tribes, and was an important center of trade and commerce in the ancient world. Over the centuries, the region was conquered and ruled by various empires, including the Roman Empire, the Vandals, and the Byzantine Empire.

In the 7th century, the Arab Muslim conquest of North Africa brought Islam to the region, and established the foundation for the Islamic culture that is still present in Saharistan today. In the following centuries, the region was ruled by various Islamic dynasties, including the Almoravid and Almohad dynasties.

### British rule (1883-1955)

Saharistan was a colony of the British Empire from 1883 to 1955. During this time, the country underwent significant changes, as British administrators imposed a new system of government and infrastructure on the existing society. Saharistan became an important hub of trade and commerce, with British interests focusing primarily on the country's natural resources, including minerals, agricultural products, and textiles. However, the colonial period was also marked by exploitation and oppression, as the British authorities placed little emphasis on improving the lives of the local population.

### Independence and political instability (1955-1967)

Saharistan gained independence from Britain in 1955, marking a new era of political and economic independence for the country. However, the transition to independence was not smooth, and was marked by political instability and conflict. The first years of independence saw a struggle for power between various political factions, as well as tensions between different ethnic and religious groups. The country struggled to establish a stable system of government and to address the challenges of poverty and underdevelopment.

### Civil war (1967-1970)

In 1967, Saharistan experienced a period of political upheaval and violence that led to a civil war lasting several years. The conflict was sparked by a dispute between the government and several insurgent groups over issues of political representation and economic opportunity. The FSLF, along with several other groups, launched a series of attacks on government installations and personnel, leading to a wave of violence and instability.

The government responded with a heavy-handed crackdown on the insurgents, leading to accusations of human rights abuses and further fueling the conflict. The civil war led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, as well as significant damage to infrastructure and property.

The conflict was ultimately resolved in 1970 through a peace agreement that granted greater autonomy to the regions where the insurgent groups were based, and promised greater political representation and economic opportunity for all citizens. However, the scars of the civil war continue to be felt in Saharistan, and the country has struggled to achieve lasting political stability and economic growth in the years since.

### City War (2010)

In 2010, the city of Al-Qusayr was the site of a violent conflict between local government forces and the Free Saharan Liberation Front (FSLF). The FSLF, led by Malik Zidane, had gained a strong foothold in the city and was working to establish a base of operations there.

The conflict was characterized by intense fighting in the streets, with both sides using heavy weapons and tactics. During the course of the conflict, it was alleged that international forces had supplied weapons to the government forces, which gave them a significant advantage.

The local government forces, which included police and military units, were eventually able to regain control of the city after several weeks of fierce fighting. Ibrahim Ali, who was at the time a member of the local police force, played a key role in the government's efforts to push back against the FSLF.

Although the conflict was ultimately resolved in favor of the government forces, it was a significant setback for the FSLF's efforts to establish a foothold in Al-Qusayr.

### Over turning of Al-Qusayr (2020)

In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Free Saharan Liberation Front (FSLF) was able to gain control of the city of Al-Qusayr. The FSLF, which had been operating in the region for many years, capitalized on the chaos and confusion caused by the pandemic to make a move on the city.

Despite the efforts of government forces to push back against the FSLF, the group was able to maintain its hold on the city. Today, Al-Qusayr remains under the control of the FSLF, with many of the city's residents living under the group's rule.

The FSLF's control of Al-Qusayr has had a significant impact on the region. The group has established a base of operations in the city and has used its control to launch attacks on government forces and other targets throughout the region. Despite the efforts of government forces to regain control of the city, the FSLF remains a powerful presence in Al-Qusayr and continues to pose a threat to the stability of the region.

## Government and Politics

Current President: President Omar Al-Mahdi

Saharistan is a country that has experienced significant political instability in recent years. The government is nominally a democracy, with elections held every five years. However, many observers believe that the elections are not free and fair, and that the ruling party exerts undue influence over the electoral process. Corruption is rampant throughout the government, with officials taking bribes and embezzling public funds. The judicial system is also seen as being heavily biased in favor of the ruling elite, with little recourse for ordinary citizens who have been wronged. As a result, there is widespread disillusionment and anger among the population, with many feeling that their voices are not being heard. This has led to the rise of insurgent groups such as the FSLF, who seek to overthrow the government and establish a new order based on justice and equality. The situation remains tense, with frequent clashes between government forces and rebels, and no clear path towards resolution.

## Economy

Saharistan's economy is primarily based on natural resources and agriculture. The country is rich in minerals such as iron, copper, and phosphates, which are mined in the northern mountains and exported to other countries. Agriculture is also a major sector, with crops such as wheat, barley, and citrus fruits grown in the fertile river valleys of the south. Saharistan has a small industrial sector, with factories producing textiles, food products, and construction materials. The country also has a growing tourism industry, with visitors drawn to its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. Despite these strengths, the economy of Saharistan is hindered by political instability, corruption, and a lack of investment in infrastructure. Many businesses struggle to access financing and face high taxes and regulatory hurdles. The government has taken some steps to promote economic growth, including tax incentives for foreign investors and improvements to transportation and energy infrastructure, but progress has been slow. As a result, unemployment and poverty rates remain high, particularly in rural areas and among young people.

## Culture

Saharistan has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by the many peoples and civilizations that have inhabited the region over the centuries. The country has a strong Islamic tradition, with the majority of the population following Sunni Islam. Religion plays an important role in daily life, with many mosques and religious schools scattered throughout the cities and towns. In addition to Islam, Saharistan has a rich artistic heritage, with literature, music, and visual arts flourishing throughout the country. Traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and metalwork are still practiced, and many artists draw inspiration from the natural beauty of the country's landscapes. The cuisine of Saharistan is also a point of pride, with dishes featuring a rich blend of spices and flavors. The people of Saharistan are known for their hospitality and warmth, and visitors are often greeted with open arms. Despite the challenges facing the country, the people remain resilient and optimistic, with a deep love for their culture and traditions.

## Climate

The climate in Saharistan is generally arid and hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in the summer months. However, the climate can vary depending on the region. In the northern mountains, temperatures are generally cooler and there may be more precipitation. In the southern river valleys, there may be more moisture and vegetation due to the presence of rivers and oases. The central desert region is extremely dry and hot, with little precipitation and very little vegetation. Sandstorms and dust storms can also occur, particularly in the desert regions.

## Geography

* Located in North Africa, with a coast along the Mediterranean Sea to the north.
* Bordered by several neighboring countries to the east, west, and south.
* Diverse terrain, including mountains, deserts, and fertile river valleys.
* Several large rivers run through the country, providing water for irrigation and transportation.

## Topography

Northern region is mountainous, with several ranges running parallel to the coast.

Central region is a vast desert, with sand dunes and rocky outcroppings.

Southern region is a mix of desert and fertile river valleys, with oases and palm groves.

Key landmarks:

### The Great Mosque of Al-Qadim

A large and ornate mosque located in the center of the city.

### The Iron Mountains

The Iron Mountains are a rugged range of peaks located in the northern region of Saharistan. The mountains are so named for the rich deposits of iron ore that lie beneath their rocky surface. The terrain in the Iron Mountains is treacherous, with steep cliffs, deep ravines, and narrow passes that wind through the peaks. The mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, including goats, sheep, and birds of prey. Despite their harsh and unforgiving terrain, the Iron Mountains are also a place of great natural beauty, with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and towering rock formations that seem to defy gravity. In recent years, the mountains have become a site of interest for mining companies seeking to extract the valuable iron ore reserves buried deep within the peaks. However, many environmentalists and local residents have raised concerns about the impact of mining on the delicate ecosystem of the Iron Mountains, and the issue remains a contentious one in Saharistan.

### The Oasis of Al-Jazeera

The Oasis of Al-Jazeera is a lush and verdant oasis located in the heart of the Saharistan desert. The oasis is a place of great natural beauty and a refuge from the harsh and unforgiving desert landscape that surrounds it. The oasis is fed by a natural spring, which bubbles up from beneath the ground and forms a small stream that winds its way through the palm trees and other vegetation. The water in the oasis is crystal clear and is home to a variety of fish and other aquatic life. The oasis is also a place of great cultural significance, and has been a gathering place for nomadic tribes and traders for centuries. In the center of the oasis lies a small village, where locals tend to fields of crops and orchards of date palms. The village is a peaceful and idyllic place, with whitewashed buildings and narrow streets that wind through the groves of palm trees. The oasis is a vital source of water and sustenance for the people of Saharistan, and its beauty and importance have made it a cherished symbol of the country's cultural heritage.

### The Port of Al-Marqab

A busy commercial port located on the coast in the west of the country.

## Cities

Settled between the rocky mountains and sprawling deserts the cities in Sharistan that can be just just as dangerous.

### Al-Qadim (Capital City)

The capital city of Sahristan. Al-Qadim is located in the northern region of Saharistan, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

Al-Qadim is a bustling metropolis located in the heart of the country, with a mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient architecture. The city is a center of commerce and culture, with a vibrant arts scene and a thriving market district.

However, the city is also plagued by poverty and inequality. Al-Qadim has a heavily populated slum area, where thousands of people live in squalid conditions. The slum is a hotbed of crime and unrest, with gangs and criminal organizations vying for control.

The government has struggled to address the social and economic issues that fuel the slum's problems, and as a result, many of the residents feel marginalized and neglected. Despite this, the slum area is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities, with people struggling to survive and make a better life for themselves and their families.

The civil war has taken its toll on the city, with frequent bombings and attacks by the FSLF. The government has imposed strict security measures, with military checkpoints and armed patrols throughout the city. Despite the danger, Al-Qadim remains a hub of activity, with people from all walks of life coming together to rebuild and restore their country.

### Al-Madinah

The city of Al-Madinah is a large industrial hub located in the southern region of Saharistan. The city is known for its chemical plants and factories, which produce a wide range of goods for export. There is also a large mine located on the border of the city, where valuable minerals and resources are extracted.

Sahara Enterprises has a strong presence and influence in Al-Madinah. Owning several of the largest factories and chemical plants in the city, as well as a number of mines and other resource extraction operations. Many of the workers in the city are employed by Sahara Enterprises, which gives them a significant degree of control over the local economy.

Despite the city's industrial success, there are also significant environmental and social issues that plague Al-Madinah. The chemical plants and factories have caused pollution and health problems for the local population, and there is also a high degree of economic inequality between the wealthy factory owners and the working-class citizens.

### Al-Marqab

The city of Al-Marqab is a major port city located in the western region of Saharistan. It is a hub of trade and commerce, with ships from all over the world coming in to dock and unload their goods. Al-Marqab is a bustling city with a diverse population, ranging from wealthy merchants to working-class sailors and dockworkers.

However, the city has also gained a reputation for being a center of illegal activity, with rumors of drug trafficking and human smuggling circulating among the locals. Ahmed Mansour's businesses are suspected to be involved in these illicit activities, using their connections in the port to move contraband in and out of the country.

Despite the illegal activities, Al-Marqab remains a vital center of trade and commerce in Saharistan. Many of the city's residents rely on the port for their livelihoods, and the city's location on the coast makes it an important strategic location for both the government and the rebels.

### Al-Qusayr

The city of Al-Qusayr is a large city located in the eastern region of Saharistan. It is largely under the control of the FSLF and is considered one of their main strongholds in the country. Al-Qusayr is a poor city, with a large population of disaffected youth who have been drawn to the rebel cause.

The city is marked by poverty and neglect, with few job opportunities or basic services available to its residents. The FSLF has stepped in to fill the gap, providing food, shelter, and healthcare to the people of Al-Qusayr. As a result, many of the city's residents are fiercely loyal to the rebels, seeing them as the only hope for a better future.

Despite the city's poverty, it has a vibrant culture and a rich history. Al-Qusayr is known for its music, poetry, and art, and has produced many famous artists and musicians over the years. The rebels have also used the city's cultural heritage as a way to rally support for their cause, organizing rallies and events that celebrate the city's unique identity.

The government has made several attempts to retake Al-Qusayr, but has been largely unsuccessful due to the city's rugged terrain and the FSLF's strong defenses. The rebels have also made use of guerrilla tactics and hit-and-run raids to maintain their hold on the city, making it a challenging target for government forces.