Algeria expels 12 French officials amid diplomatic tensions

On April 14, 2025, Algeria issued an order for 12 French embassy staff to leave the country within 48 hours. This directive was reportedly linked to the indictment of three Algerians on serious charges in France, including abduction and participation in a terrorist organization. Among the indicted is a consular official, implicating the diplomatic community in a growing strain between the two nations. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot condemned the expulsions, asserting that the officials had no involvement in the legal proceedings against the Algerians and warned that France would respond vigorously if the expulsions proceeded. The relationship between Algeria and France has been historically fraught, especially following France’s support of Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara, which Algeria opposes. The situation escalated due to various incidents, such as the arrest of French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal, leading to increased tensions. Domestic stability in Algeria has also been at stake due to the government’s crackdown on dissent, exemplified by the case of Amir Boukhors, a social media personality abducted in France in 2024 and critical of the Algerian regime, who has been at the center of this diplomatic row. In recent weeks, attempts to mend relations included communication between French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboun. These talks seemed to herald a new beginning, despite ongoing issues like the arrest of a consular official in Algeria. Barrot's calls for Algeria to reconsider its decision to expel the French officials highlight the fragile state of their diplomatic relations, which have seen many ups and downs over the years. As diplomatic ties continue to teeter on the brink, the expulsion of these officials signifies a definitive escalation in hostilities. The situation is emblematic of a larger struggle over influence and narrative both countries wish to maintain. In the face of this potential diplomatic rupture, analysts and international observers remain watchful of how both nations navigate this complicated historic rivalry while managing their respective domestic pressures.