French authorities have detained three Algerian men, identified as social media influencers, on allegations of posting videos inciting violence. The arrests come amid strained relations between France and Algeria, particularly over France’s renewed support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara.
Influencers Accused of Incitement
Among those detained is Imad Ould Brahim, a 31-year-old video blogger known as Imad Tintin. Brahim was arrested near Grenoble after allegedly urging his followers to commit violent acts, including “burn alive, kill, and rape” on French territory.
He faces charges of “direct incitement of an act of terrorism” and is being held in custody pending a trial scheduled for 5 March.
Brahim, who entered France in December 2021 and applied for residency in 2023, denies any terrorist intent. His lawyer, Alexandre Rouvier, has challenged the interpretation of his videos and requested further investigation.
Another influencer, 25-year-old Youcef A., known as Zazouyoussef, was arrested in Brest for allegedly advocating attacks in France and violence in Algeria. He will stand trial on 24 February for “publicly advocating an act of terrorism.”
A third Algerian influencer, identified only as Doualemn, was detained in Montpellier for allegedly targeting an Algerian activist opposed to the Algerian government. Details of his case remain under wraps as prosecutors deliberate on the direction of the investigation.
Diplomatic Context
The arrests unfold against a backdrop of renewed tensions between France and its former colony. Algerian officials withdrew their ambassador from Paris last July after France shifted its stance to support Moroccan claims over Western Sahara, a move that angered Algiers.
French-Algerian relations have further deteriorated following Algeria’s detention of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal since November. The 75-year-old author is a vocal critic of the Algerian government.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that Paris seeks “the best relations” with Algiers but expressed concerns over Algeria’s commitment to agreements aimed at improving bilateral ties.
Legal Proceedings and Public Reactions
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed the arrests, describing the suspects’ online remarks as “vile” and emphasizing that they would be held accountable in court. The French government has not directly linked the arrests to the diplomatic fallout with Algeria but has reiterated its stance against online incitement.
The cases highlight ongoing challenges in managing the intersection of social media influence, national security, and international diplomacy.
