French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has pledged a "graduated response" to Algeria’s refusal to cooperate on the deportation of approximately 60 Algerian nationals deemed threats to public order in France. The French government recently sent a list of these individuals to Algerian authorities, requesting their "priority" expulsion. However, Algiers has declined to comply, escalating tensions between the two nations.
Algeria’s Stance and France’s Frustration
For several months, Algeria has refused to accept the return of its nationals who have allegedly committed criminal acts or become radicalized in the European Union. This issue gained renewed attention following a deadly knife attack in France, where it was revealed that the perpetrator had been expelled 14 times but remained in the country due to Algeria’s refusal to allow reentry.
In a press release issued on Monday, Algeria’s diplomatic service rejected France’s demands, stating, "Algeria reaffirms its categorical rejection of threats and attempts at intimidation, as well as injunctions, ultimatums, and any kind of threatening language." The statement accused Paris of undermining established procedures for handling expulsion cases and applying a "selective approach" to bilateral and international agreements. Algeria emphasized its commitment to consular protection for its nationals and urged France to follow the usual diplomatic channels, handling cases individually.
Retaliatory Measures on the Table
In response, Interior Minister Retailleau expressed regret over Algeria’s refusal to adhere to international law. On his X (formerly Twitter) account, he stated, "As decided by the interministerial committee chaired by the Prime Minister, a graduated response will be implemented." This could include a range of measures, from individual sanctions to revisiting France’s agreements with Algeria.
The French government has already suspended a 2007 agreement that allowed holders of Algerian diplomatic passports to enter France without a visa for short stays. Additionally, an internal memo from the Interior Ministry, leaked to the press, suggested that France might consider "slowing down compensation" for victims of French nuclear tests conducted in the Algerian Sahara between 1960 and 1966.
Historical Tensions Fuel Diplomatic Strain
Relations between France and Algeria have long been strained due to their colonial history, but tensions have worsened since July, when French President Emmanuel Macron recognized an autonomy plan for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty. This move angered Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front’s quest for independence in the region.
The current standoff over deportations underscores the fragile state of Franco-Algerian relations, with both sides digging in their heels. As France prepares to implement retaliatory measures, the diplomatic rift between the two nations shows no signs of easing.