Tensions between France and Algeria increased on Monday. Algeria ordered 12 French officials to leave within 48 hours. This decision followed the arrest of an Algerian consular official in France. Algeria described the arrest as a “vile act” and blamed French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau for it. In response, Algeria’s foreign ministry defended the expulsion, calling it a "sovereign" decision. It argued that the arrest was due to the "negative and distressing attitude" of the French interior minister toward Algeria. Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot spoke out. He stated that the expulsions were tied to the arrest of three Algerians in France. Barrot urged Algeria to reconsider its decision, saying, “I am asking Algerian authorities to abandon these expulsion measures.” Furthermore, he warned, “If the decision to send back our officials is maintained, we will have no other choice but to respond immediately.” The 12 expelled officials included some members from France’s interior ministry, according to a diplomatic source.

A History of Tensions

This latest incident occurs at a delicate time for the two countries. Relations between France and Algeria have long been troubled. As a result, the recent dispute highlights how challenging it is to rebuild their ties. Despite the tensions, French diplomatic sources assured that “contacts are being maintained.” They also emphasized that France hopes for a “return to an easing of tensions” with Algeria. Earlier this month, Barrot visited Algeria in an effort to smooth over relations. During his visit, he met with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Both sides expressed a desire to rebuild a partnership of equals.

The Arrest of Algerians and Boukhors

The expulsion is linked to the arrest of three Algerians, including a consular official. They are suspected of being involved in the 2024 abduction of Algerian critic Amir Boukhors in a Paris suburb. The accused are also facing charges of “terrorist” conspiracy and remain in pre-trial detention. Boukhors, known as “Amir DZ” on TikTok, was abducted in April 2024 but released the following day. He had been granted political asylum in France in 2023. Algeria, however, wants him back to face trial. It has issued nine international arrest warrants for him, but France refuses to extradite him.

Algerian Response and Criticism

Algeria quickly condemned the actions of the French interior ministry. It called the reasoning “rotten arguments” and described the arrest as an “unacceptable judicial conspiracy.” Moreover, Algeria warned that this incident would severely damage relations between the two countries. The relationship between France and Algeria has been tense for years. For example, last year, France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara angered Algeria. The situation worsened when Algeria arrested French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal. In March, he was sentenced to five years in prison for national security charges.

Criticism from France's Right-Wing

In addition, right-wing politicians in France took aim at the government. Jordan Bardella, head of the National Rally party, criticized President Macron’s “appeasement strategy.” He accused Barrot of “prostrating” himself during his visit to Algeria.