Bruno Retailleau, the French Minister of the Interior, is making waves with his uncompromising stance on the issue of Algerian nationals living irregularly in France. On March 15, 2025, he reiterated his position during an interview with Le Parisien, asserting his commitment to implementing what he calls a "rapport de force" with Algeria, emphasizing the necessity of dealing firmly with situations involving Algerians deemed dangerous.
"Tant que j'ai la conviction d'être utile et que les moyens me sont donnés, je serai mobilisé. Mais si on me demandait de céder sur ce sujet majeur pour la sécurité des Français, évidemment que je le refuserais," Retailleau declared, clearly stating his unwillingness to yield on what he perceives as a fundamental matter of national security.
His comments come after the government took the step of sending Algeria a list of Algerian nationals considered dangerous and who are to be expelled from France. This list was transmitted to the Algerian authorities on March 14, just one day before Retailleau's media appearance.
Referring to the violent knife attack on February 22, 2025, in Mulhouse where one man was killed and several municipal police officers were injured, Retailleau expressed alarm at the possibility of similar incidents. The assailant, who had illegally entered France, was under the obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) but had not been repatriated, demonstrating the complications arising from Algeria's repeated refusals to accept their nationals.
"Je ne veux pas d'un deuxième Mulhouse," he stated, underlining the urgency of addressing the risks presented by individuals who are allowed to remain unmonitored within French borders. He connects this incident directly to the broader issue of expulsion, stating firmly, "Si l'Algérie ne reprend pas ses ressortissants dangereux, nous engagerons une riposte graduée," indicating readiness for heightened measures if Algeria continues to disregard France’s requests.
Retailleau’s determination fields concerns not only about current security protocols but also about future diplomatic relations. He warned of severe consequences if Algeria does not comply, including possible reevaluation of historical agreements from 1968 between the two nations, which provide special immigration provisions for Algerians.
His tone carries weight, especially when he hinted at potential resignation should the government pressure him to relent on this issue. He clarified, "Je ne suis pas là pour une place mais pour remplir une mission, celle de protéger les Français," demonstrating his commitment to prioritizing national safety over his position.
The backdrop of this delicate international relationship includes years of diplomatic tension, particularly since President Emmanuel Macron’s acknowledgment of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, which has already soured feelings between Paris and Algiers. This historical friction underlines the complexity of negotiations and the urgency Retailleau feels about instilling stronger control over migration.
Retailleau's rhetoric has been characterized as particularly forceful, portraying France as ready to confront Algeria directly: "La France est prête à assumer le bras de fer," he claims, demonstrating his intent to take decisive measures irrespective of potential backlash from Algeria.
His comments also reflect broader discussions on security within the French political sphere, coinciding with the newly proposed anti-drug trafficking laws expected to enter the legislative chambers soon. Retailleau believes addressing drug trafficking is similarly urgent, emphasizing the prevalence of violence associated with narcotics, which claims over 100 lives annually.
He insists on the need for comprehensive measures, possibly utilizing advanced surveillance techniques to disrupt criminal networks, even as segments of the political class view such steps with skepticism.
The Minister's uncompromising approach to Algeria and irrefutable focus on national safety resonate with constituents who share concerns about rising crime rates attributed to immigration issues. The response to his firm stance remains mixed, with support from those who prioritize security and criticism from those wary of deterioration in diplomatic relations.
Bruno Retailleau’s unwavering resolve on issues surrounding Algerian nationals shows his prioritization of national security, even at the risk of his cabinet position. Moving forward, the interactions with Algeria are poised to pivot significantly based on how the French government handles the situation with its Algerian counterparts, possibly reshaping future treaties and international agreements.