Tensions between France and Algeria escalated sharply after Algeria ordered the expulsion of 12 French diplomatic officials, a move condemned by France as “regrettable” and one that “will not be without consequences.” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot issued a stern warning on Tuesday, stating that if Algeria chooses to escalate the situation, France will respond with “the greatest firmness.”
The expulsion followed the arrest in France of an Algerian consular official, who, along with two other Algerians, was indicted by French prosecutors on suspicion of involvement in the 2024 abduction of Amir Boukhors, a vocal opponent of the Algerian government residing in France. The three men are also facing charges related to a “terrorist” conspiracy and are currently in pre-trial detention.
Algeria’s Foreign Ministry described the arrest as a “vile act” and a “flagrant violation” of diplomatic norms, blaming French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau for the incident and accusing him of infringing on Algerian sovereignty. The ministry declared the 12 French officials persona non grata, demanding their immediate departure within 48 hours.
This diplomatic crisis comes at a sensitive time, just weeks after French Foreign Minister Barrot’s visit to Algiers, which had raised hopes for a thaw in relations. The expulsion marks the largest removal of French consular staff since Algeria gained independence in 1962 and threatens to derail recent efforts to normalize ties.
Relations between the two countries have been strained for decades, with recent flashpoints including French President Emmanuel Macron’s recognition of Western Sahara’s autonomy under Moroccan control and the imprisonment of French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal in Algeria.
Barrot urged Algerian authorities to reconsider the expulsions, emphasizing that France would be compelled to retaliate if the expulsions proceed. The French government views the move as a direct response to the arrest of the Algerian consular official and a setback to diplomatic relations.
The unfolding dispute underscores the fragile and complex nature of Franco-Algerian relations, highlighting deep-seated political tensions and the challenges of reconciling historical grievances with contemporary diplomatic realities.
