France has announced the expulsion of 12 Algerian diplomatic and consular staff members, along with the recall of its ambassador from Algiers. This move has exacerbated an already strained relationship between the two nations, casting a shadow over recent efforts toward diplomatic reconciliation.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, follows Algeria’s decision to expel the same number of French diplomats within 48 hours. The tensions escalated after French authorities indicted three Algerian nationals, including a consular official, in connection with the alleged kidnapping of Amir Boukhors, a prominent Algerian activist known to his TikTok followers as “Amir DZ.” Boukhors, who was granted asylum in France earlier this year, was seized in a Paris suburb in April 2022 and released the following day. French prosecutors have indicated that the suspects also face charges related to “terrorist” conspiracy.
This incident marks a significant escalation in the diplomatic rift between France and Algeria, with this being the first instance of a consular employee’s detention in the history of their relations. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot commented that these expulsions are a direct consequence of the recent arrests. Meanwhile, officials from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs have highlighted that if Algeria moves forward with its expulsion of French diplomats, it would represent the first such expulsion since Algeria gained independence in 1962.
Algeria has sought the extradition of Boukhors, issuing nine international warrants for him on various charges, including fraud and allegations tied to terrorism. The situation has unfolded despite recent diplomatic overtures, as Barrot had met with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune just a week prior, asserting that bilateral relations were on the mend after a period of contention.
Relations took another hit when French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy plan regarding the disputed Western Sahara region, a stance that sparked significant protest in Algiers. Moreover, the detention of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal by an Algerian court has further complicated diplomatic ties, prompting Macron to advocate for his release.
As both countries navigate this complex diplomatic landscape, the potential for fruitful engagement remains challenging but vital for regional stability.
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