France expels 12 Algerian diplomats in escalating diplomatic row
France has ordered 12 Algerian officials to leave and recalled its ambassador from Algiers as relations between the two countries are now at the lowest. PHOTO: AFP
France has ordered the expulsion of 12 Algerian diplomatic and consular staff, in a sharp escalation of tensions with its former colony. The move follows Algeria's decision to expel 12 French diplomats and marks a new low in relations that both countries had recently been working to improve.
Paris announced the expulsions on Tuesday, a day after Algiers retaliated over the arrest of an Algerian consular official and two others in France. The trio are accused of involvement in the kidnapping of Amir Boukhors – a government critic and social media figure known to his followers as 'Amir DZ' – who was abducted near Paris in April 2023.
French authorities say the suspects face charges of terrorist conspiracy, and one of them holds a diplomatic post. Boukhors, who has been granted asylum in France, was released a day after the abduction.
The incident has sparked a diplomatic rift, with France recalling its ambassador from Algiers. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said the expulsions were a direct response to Algeria's actions.
Algeria has issued nine international arrest warrants for Boukhors on charges including fraud and terrorism, and is demanding his extradition.
This is the first time France has detained an Algerian consulate employee, and if Algeria proceeds with its expulsions, it would be the first such move against French diplomats since Algeria gained independence in 1962.
Despite a recent thaw in ties — highlighted by Barrot's meeting with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune just last week — relations have once again soured. Disagreements over France's stance on Western Sahara and the jailing of French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal have further strained the bilateral relationship.
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