Algeria has ordered 12 French officials to leave the country within 48 hours, escalating tensions between the two nations. The decision, confirmed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Monday, comes in response to the arrest of three Algerian nationals in France, including a consular official, in connection with the alleged abduction of an Algerian influencer
Last Friday, French prosecutors indicted three Algerians over the April 2024 kidnapping of Amir Boukhors, a vocal critic of the Algerian government known as “Amir DZ” on social media. Boukhors, who has over a million TikTok followers, was abducted in a Paris suburb but released the next day. He has lived in France since 2016 and was granted political asylum in 2023.
Algeria has issued nine international arrest warrants for Boukhors, accusing him of fraud and terrorism-related offenses, and is demanding his extradition. However, his lawyer claims the case is politically motivated.
The indictment of the three Algerians, including a diplomatic official, has angered Algiers, which views the move as an attempt to undermine recent efforts to improve bilateral relations. In retaliation, Algeria has expelled 12 French officials, some reportedly from the French Interior Ministry.
Foreign Minister Barrot called on Algeria to reverse its decision, warning that France would “respond immediately” if the expulsions proceed. The diplomatic standoff highlights lingering tensions between the two nations, despite attempts at reconciliation.
France and Algeria share a complex history marked by colonialism and post-independence disputes. While economic and security cooperation continues, political disagreements persist. The latest crisis underscores the fragility of their relationship, with Algeria taking a firm stance against perceived French interference.
As both countries weigh their next steps, the expulsion of French officials could further strain ties, complicating efforts to maintain stability in North Africa and Mediterranean diplomacy. The coming days will reveal whether dialogue can ease tensions or if retaliatory measures will deepen the rift.
