Tensions between France and Algeria have reached a boiling point as both nations engage in tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions, marking one of the most serious crises since Algerian independence in 1962.
France announced the recall of its ambassador to Algeria and the expulsion of 12 Algerian diplomats from Paris. The move follows Algeria’s own decision earlier this week to expel 12 French officials after a French police operation led to the arrest of an Algerian consular staff member in connection with the kidnapping of government critic Amir DZ.
The French presidency labelled Algeria’s response as “unjustified and incomprehensible,” while French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot accused Algeria of choosing “escalation.” In return, Algerian Secretary of State Sofiane Chaib blamed French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau for provoking the crisis, calling the arrest of the consular official “grotesque” and a humiliation for Algeria.
Relations had already been strained after President Emmanuel Macron’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara—a move Algeria strongly opposes due to its support for the pro-independence Polisario Front.
The arrest of novelist Boualem Sansal in November 2024 on charges of “undermining national security” also drew attention, as did France’s frustration over Algeria’s refusal to repatriate Algerians considered “dangerous” by French authorities. Retailleau specifically cited a deadly knife attack in Mulhouse as a consequence of Algeria’s alleged inaction.
Despite earlier efforts to ease tensions, including high-level talks between Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the situation has now spiraled into a full-blown diplomatic stand-off.
Paris has made it clear that its ambassador will return within 48 hours, though Barrot acknowledged that dialogue with Algeria is inevitable: “Sooner or later we’ll have to have a frank, level-headed and challenging dialogue.”
The crisis not only threatens bilateral ties but may also have wider implications for cooperation on migration, security, and regional politics in North Africa.