On April 14, 2025, Algeria expelled 12 French diplomats, demanding their departure within 48 hours. This action intensified existing tensions between the two nations, rooted in recent events and historical grievances.
Background of the Dispute
The immediate catalyst for the expulsion was the arrest of three Algerian nationals in France, including an Algerian consular official. They are accused of involvement in the April 2024 kidnapping of Amir Boukhors, known as Amir DZ, a prominent critic of the Algerian government with a substantial following on social media. Boukhors was abducted in a Paris suburb and released 27 hours later, alleging that his captors impersonated police officers. French authorities have charged the detainees with “kidnapping or arbitrary detention in connection with a terrorist undertaking.”
In response, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot condemned Algeria’s decision to expel the diplomats, stating that they had no connection to the ongoing legal proceedings. He warned of immediate reciprocal measures if Algeria does not reverse its decision.
Historical Context
The expulsion adds to a series of diplomatic strains between France and Algeria. In December 2024, Algeria summoned the French ambassador to reprimand France for alleged efforts to destabilize Algeria, accusing French intelligence services of recruiting former militants to undermine the country. Additionally, in July 2024, Algeria withdrew its ambassador from France after French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, a stance opposed by Algeria.
Current Situation
Despite these tensions, recent weeks saw attempts at rapprochement. A phone call between French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune aimed at renewing cooperation, and Barrot’s visit to Algeria earlier this month were steps toward improving relations. However, the expulsion of the French diplomats threatens to undermine these efforts, highlighting the fragility of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
