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France has announced the expulsion of several Algerian diplomats in direct response to Algeria’s decision to expel 15 French officials earlier this week, escalating a long-simmering diplomatic row between the two nations.
In a statement released Wednesday, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs described the move as “strict reciprocity,” emphasizing that it had summoned Algerian officials to formally communicate the decision. The ministry reiterated its hope for maintaining diplomatic dialogue but stated that the action was necessary to respond to what it called a “hostile gesture” by Algiers.
The latest flare-up comes amid enduring tensions between the two countries, despite deep economic ties and long-standing security cooperation. France and Algeria have often clashed over immigration policies, regional security matters, and the painful colonial legacy that continues to strain relations decades after Algeria gained independence in 1962.
While officials in Paris have not disclosed the exact number of Algerian diplomats being expelled, sources suggest it mirrors the 15 French officials forced out of Algiers on Sunday.
This diplomatic tit-for-tat could impact broader cooperation on key issues, particularly North African security, counterterrorism, and the movement of people between the two nations.
More developments are expected in the coming days as both countries weigh their next steps in this high-stakes diplomatic standoff.
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