French political tensions escalated this weekend as Bruno Retailleau, the leader of the Republicans party, threatened to resign from the government if France does not adopt a firmer stance against Algeria concerning illegal immigrants. Retailleau’s remarks drew sharp rebuke from Manuel Bompard, coordinator of La France insoumise, who mocked the threat during his appearance on the Grand Rendez-vous Europe 1-CNews-Les Échos.
On Sunday, March 16, 2025, Bompard criticized Retailleau's position, noting, "It would be good news for France," if he were to act on his warning. This back-and-forth highlights the deteriorated relations between France and Algeria, which have soured significantly since President Emmanuel Macron's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara last July.
Adding fuel to the fire, Algeria has refused to accept back its citizens who are subject to a requirement to leave the French territory (OQTF), including the perpetrator of the February 22 attack in Mulhouse, which resulted in one death. This refusal has only intensified the rhetoric from French politicians like Retailleau, who has been increasingly vocal against the Algerian government since the mid-November 2024 incarceration of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal.
Retailleau's advocacy for implementing stronger measures against Algeria includes reconsidering the 1968 agreements between the two countries. These agreements afford Algerians special status concerning their rights to travel, reside, and work within France. Bompard argues, though, against this unilateral approach, cautioning, "If you unilaterally denounce the 1968 agreements, you will revert to the previous Évian agreements, which allow free movement between Algeria and France. I am not sure this is the wish of Mr. Retailleau."
Bompard also challenges the logic behind Retailleau's escalation of tensions, asserting, "We must not make the case of Boualem Sansal a point of public strife." He advocated instead for diplomatic initiatives to resolve the situation surrounding Sansal's incarceration.
The deepening crisis highlights the fragile nature of Franco-Algerian relations, which have been marred by political resentment and historical grievances. Retailleau’s hawkish stance reflects broader sentiments among some French politicians who believe the country must adopt tougher measures to assert its interests, especially concerning immigration and national security. Conversely, politicians like Bompard are pushing for more diplomatic solutions, indicating a split within the French government’s approach to foreign policy.
This political divide continues to manifest as the situation evolves, with both sides asserting their views vigorously. With the backdrop of the from-since-chaos relations between France and Algeria, how this will all play out remains to be seen.