Diplomatic Tensions Rise as France Condemns Algeria’s Expulsion of 12 Officials as a “Regrettable Decision”

Relations between France and Algeria have sharply deteriorated following Algeria’s decision to expel twelve French officials, most of whom are affiliated with the Ministry of the Interior. The move, announced on Monday, April 14, comes amid growing tensions after three Algerian nationals were indicted in Paris for alleged involvement in kidnapping and unlawful detention linked to terrorist activities.

Speaking on France 2’s Les 4 Vérités on Tuesday, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot described the expulsion as “a very regrettable decision” that “will not be without consequence.” He insisted that the judicial proceedings cited by Algeria are entirely independent of any governmental influence.

Judicial matters should not be politicized
“This is a unilateral move by the Algerian authorities, taken in response to an independent judicial process. The French judiciary operates autonomously — these legal proceedings have no bearing on diplomatic relations between our two countries,” Barrot stressed.

While reaffirming France’s willingness to maintain dialogue, the minister warned that reciprocal measures could be taken if Algeria does not reverse its stance: “If Algeria proceeds with the expulsion of these twelve officials, who were given 48 hours to leave the country, we will have no choice but to respond in kind.”

In a statement released Monday evening, Algeria placed full responsibility for the diplomatic fallout on France’s Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau — a claim firmly rejected by the French government. “Minister Retailleau has no involvement in this legal matter. Such accusations are both unfounded and detrimental to the progress we had begun to rebuild,” Barrot responded.

Although the French government says that diplomatic channels remain open, Barrot concluded with a firm message: “If the Algerian authorities choose escalation, we will respond with firmness and resolve.”