/
RSS Feed
Diplomatic relations between France and Algeria have sharply deteriorated following a series of retaliatory actions. France has expelled 12 Algerian diplomats and recalled its ambassador from Algiers, responding to Algeria’s earlier expulsion of 12 French officials.
The immediate catalyst for this escalation was the arrest of an Algerian consular official in France, implicated in the 2024 kidnapping of Algerian government critic Amir Boukhors, also known as Amir DZ. French authorities charged three Algerian nationals in connection with the case. Algeria condemned the arrest as a violation of diplomatic norms and accused France of attempting to “humiliate” the nation.
Underlying these events are longstanding tensions. France’s recent support for Morocco’s claim over Western Sahara has angered Algeria, which backs the Polisario Front advocating for the region’s independence. Additionally, France’s decision to reduce visas for Algerian nationals, citing Algeria’s refusal to repatriate its citizens deemed dangerous by France, has further strained relations.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described Algeria’s actions as “unjustified” and emphasized the need for balanced dialogue. Despite recent high-level communications aiming to mend ties, including a phone call between Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the situation remains tense.
The diplomatic fallout underscores the fragility of Franco-Algerian relations, influenced by historical grievances, regional politics, and mutual accusations of interference.
