Tebboune Stresses Macron's Role Amid Algeria-France Diplomatic Crisis

In an escalating diplomatic crisis between Algeria and France, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has asserted that all disputes should be directed towards French President Emmanuel Macron, the one he considers as the 'lone reference point' for negotiation. This statement, made on Saturday evening, March 22, 2025, underlined the importance of Macron in resolving the current tensions that have persisted due to a variety of political factors.

President Tebboune's remarks were delivered during an exclusive interview with representatives of the national media. He emphasized that the relationship between Algeria and France should directly involve Macron or someone he delegates, dismissing wider political uproar as irrelevant to their negotiations. "To not fall into the political commotion over there (in France), I would say only three words: we keep as our only point of reference President Macron," Tebboune stated. He believes that any problems must be solved with him or with the appointed diplomats, such as the Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Attaf, who he trusts entirely.

The roots of this diplomatic strain can be traced back to Macron's support in July 2024 for a plan of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty concerning the disputed Western Sahara territory. This move infuriated Algeria, leading to the withdrawal of its ambassador from Paris and seen as a direct affront to Algeria's stance on the issue.

By fall 2024, tensions escalated further with the arrest of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who was tried in Algeria following controversial statements he made on the French media outlet Frontières, known for its far-right leanings. A local prosecutor has requested a ten-year prison sentence for Sansal, with a verdict expected on March 27, just days away. This legal predicament has drawn the attention of President Macron, who urged Tebboune to resolve the issue to restore trust between the two nations.

During the same media engagement, Tebboune touched on the broader implications of freedom of expression. He expressed his disappointment regarding recent sanctions against journalists who openly spoke about France's colonial history. He noted, "When a French journalist, Jean-Michel Aphatie, is penalized for stating historical truths about colonization, we question where freedom of expression is secured. Likewise, when an Algerian is punished in France for showing solidarity with Palestine, the same question arises."

The situation took another turn in early January 2025 when Algeria faced backlash concerning Algerians under an obligation to leave French territory (OQTFs). The tensions intensified following a tragic attack in Mulhouse, where an Algerian subject to multiple OQTFs committed an act of violence, raising scrutiny over the handling of Algerians in France. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau threatened a 'graduated response' if Algeria continues to refuse to accept its citizens who were expelled from France.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Tebboune referenced an Algerian individual facing an OQTF simply for voicing his condemnation of the "genocide in Gaza." He indicated that daily, dozens of cases arise that exemplify struggles entwined with freedom of expression. "These are dozens of cases per day; this is the freedom of expression," he stated emphatically.

Moreover, Tebboune discussed the implications of recent visits by French officials to the Western Sahara. Culture Minister Rachida Dati and Senate President Gérard Larcher had made ostensible visits to the contested area, which Tebboune branded as problematic, infringing upon legal international statutes. He stated, "Such ostentatious visits pose problems and violate international legality, especially as France is a member of the Security Council and this matter is still in the hands of the UN.”

Despite these challenges, President Tebboune reassured the Algerian community living in France, emphasizing that as long as citizens respect local laws, they would not face persecution. "No one will threaten them, even President Macron has said so. We will not allow anyone to harm them," he affirmed.

Reflecting on the state of bilateral relationships, Tebboune referred to both nations as independent states with separate interests. He pointedly remarked on the need for both leaders to engage collaboratively despite the political turbulence. Although there have been moments of discord, the ongoing communication and cooperation between the two leaders signify a commitment to overcoming the complexities inherent in their historical and political relationship.

As the situation develops, the outcomes of Boualem Sansal's trial and the broader implications of France's foreign policy regarding Algeria and the Western Sahara will be critical in shaping future relations. The upcoming verdict on March 27, along with potential responses from both governments, may either mend or further fracture the connections that bind these two nations.