Algeria’s decision to expel 12 French consular staff members has significantly escalated diplomatic tensions between the two countries, potentially derailing hopes for reconciliation.
The move was in response to charges filed in France against an Algerian consular official accused of involvement in the kidnapping of an opposition dissident in Paris last year.
Algeria views the arrest as a “flagrant contravention” of diplomatic immunities. Despite recent efforts to mend relations, including a phone call between
French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and a visit by Macron’s foreign minister to Algiers, the expulsion suggests anti-French sentiments persist in Algeria’s government.
The Algerian government appears to target not Macron but rather elements within his government, particularly Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, known for hardline stances on immigration and relations with Algeria.
Several expelled officials are from the French interior ministry, further straining ties.
The diplomatic rift has impacted trade, intelligence-sharing, and led to bitter exchanges over internet influencers.
Notably, Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal was arrested and sentenced to five years in jail for crimes against state security, with hopes for his release now dimmed.
