France Warns Of Firm Response After Algeria Expels 12 Diplomats Amid Rising Tensions.
France’s foreign minister has strongly criticised Algeria’s recent decision to expel 12 French diplomats, describing the move as “regrettable” and promising a firm response if tensions continue to escalate.
Speaking on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said the expulsion “will not be without consequences”, warning that “if Algeria chooses escalation, we will respond with the greatest firmness.”
The diplomatic fallout follows the arrest of an Algerian consular official in France, a move which Algeria’s foreign ministry denounced as a “vile act”. Algerian authorities have blamed French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau for the arrest and have declared the 12 French officials persona non grata.
The incident has further strained the already complex relationship between Paris and Algiers, with the two nations often navigating a turbulent diplomatic history rooted in colonial legacy and political disagreements. The latest row comes at a sensitive moment, highlighting the persistent challenges in mending bilateral ties.
Tensions rose sharply last week after French prosecutors indicted three Algerian nationals, including a consular official, in connection with the 2024 abduction of Amir Boukhors, a vocal critic of the Algerian government, in a suburb of Paris. The men are also facing charges related to a “terrorist” conspiracy and have been placed in pre-trial detention.
The developments have raised concerns over the potential diplomatic fallout, with analysts warning that the situation could further destabilise relations if not carefully managed. As both governments navigate this latest crisis, the international community will be watching closely to see whether dialogue or confrontation will prevail.
