France announced on Monday that Algeria had threatened to expel 12 of its diplomatic staff, warning that it would take immediate retaliatory measures if the expulsions go ahead, marking the latest escalation in tensions between the two countries.
Algeria voiced strong objections over the weekend following France’s detention of an Algerian consular agent, who is suspected of involvement in the kidnapping of an Algerian national. French media reported that three people, including the diplomat, are under investigation in connection with the abduction of Amir Boukhors, an opponent of the Algerian government.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that Algeria had demanded the expulsion of 12 French diplomatic staff within 48 hours, a move that Paris considers hostile.
“If the decision to expel our agents stands, we will have no choice but to respond immediately,” Barrot stated in a press release.
As of now, Algeria has not publicly confirmed any plans to expel the diplomats.
The relationship between France and Algeria, its former colony, has been historically complex, with a recent deterioration spurred by French President Emmanuel Macron’s support for Morocco’s stance on the Western Sahara dispute, which angered Algerian authorities.
