On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, tensions between France and Algeria escalated significantly as President Emmanuel Macron announced the recall of the French ambassador to Algiers, Stéphane Romatet, along with the expulsion of twelve Algerian agents from France. This diplomatic move comes in response to Algeria's decision on April 13 to expel twelve French officials from its territory, a situation that has been brewing since the arrest of an Algerian consular agent in France.
The Elysée Palace characterized the expulsion of the French diplomats as a "symmetrical" response, emphasizing that the Algerian authorities bear responsibility for the "brutal degradation" of bilateral relations. The French government expressed its consternation regarding Algeria's actions, labeling them as unjustified and incomprehensible.
According to reports, the expelled French agents were already en route back to France by Tuesday evening. The incident marks a significant downturn in Franco-Algerian relations, which had only recently shown signs of improvement following a series of diplomatic engagements. Just fifteen days prior, Macron had spoken with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in an effort to mend ties that had been strained over various issues, including migration and security.
In a statement, the Elysée urged Algeria to "show responsibility" and resume dialogue, reiterating the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between the two nations. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau echoed these sentiments, declaring that the French response to the Algerian actions was "totally appropriate." He further criticized the notion that France could serve as a "playground for the Algerian services," highlighting the growing frustration within the French government regarding Algeria's diplomatic conduct.
The backdrop to this diplomatic spat includes the recent arrest of three Algerian nationals in France, including an employee of the Algerian consulate. These individuals were charged with serious offenses related to the kidnapping of an Algerian opposition figure, Amir Boukhors, also known as Amir DZ, who has been a vocal critic of the Algerian regime. The case has added fuel to the fire, with Algeria asserting that its expulsion of French officials was a necessary response to what it deems a violation of its sovereignty.
Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, had traveled to Algeria on April 6 to promote cooperation between the two countries after a prolonged period of tension. However, the recent developments have dashed hopes for a thaw in relations. Barrot remarked on social media that the Algerian authorities had chosen escalation, reaffirming France's commitment to respond as necessary.
As the diplomatic crisis unfolds, the Elysée has reiterated its stance that Algeria must continue to fulfill its obligations regarding migration and security, despite the ongoing disputes. The relationship between the two countries has been historically complex, marked by a shared past that includes colonial tensions and ongoing debates over issues such as the Western Sahara.
In a separate but related issue, the French government has expressed concern over the fate of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who was sentenced to five years in prison in Algeria for remarks deemed harmful to the country's territorial integrity. Barrot has called for a humanitarian gesture from Algeria, advocating for Sansal's release given his health condition.
Despite the current tensions, both sides acknowledge the necessity of dialogue. The French presidency has emphasized that it is in the interest of both nations to engage in constructive conversations to address their differences. As the situation develops, observers will be watching closely to see if diplomatic efforts can be revived or if the rift will deepen further.
