Algiers, Algeria — In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, Algeria has ordered 12 French diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours, declaring them personae non gratae. The move comes after the arrest of an Algerian consular official by French authorities, an action Algeria has labeled a blatant violation of diplomatic immunity.
France’s Foreign Ministry confirmed receipt of the expulsion notice, which includes embassy officials and personnel from the French Interior Ministry. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urged Algeria to reconsider the expulsions, stating that France is prepared to “respond immediately” if the decision is not reversed.
The diplomatic rift intensified when Algeria summoned French Ambassador Stéphane Romatet over the weekend to protest the arrest of its consular official. The detained diplomat was reportedly questioned regarding alleged links to the 2024 disappearance of Amir Boukhors, an Algerian activist based in Paris, known on social media as “Amir DZ.”
Algerian authorities have dismissed the allegations as unfounded, asserting that the only evidence cited was the diplomat’s phone being detected near Boukhors’ residence. They demanded the immediate release of the consular official, calling the arrest a “fabricated pretext” that undermines efforts to restore ties between the two nations.
“Any further infringement on our sovereignty will trigger a firm response based on reciprocity,” warned an official statement from Algeria’s Foreign Ministry.
This incident marks one of the most serious diplomatic ruptures between Algeria and France in recent years. The relationship between the two countries has long been complicated by historical grievances stemming from Algeria’s colonial past and ongoing disputes over issues like migration and regional security.
The expulsion of the diplomats could have broader implications for international relations in the region. Analysts are watching closely to see how both nations navigate this crisis, which threatens to unravel recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reconciliation.
