Diplomatic Crisis Deepens: France Expels Algerian Diplomats in Tit-for-Tat Response

Tensions between France and Algeria have escalated sharply, with Paris retaliating on Tuesday to Algeria’s decision to expel 12 French diplomatic staff. In a symmetrical move, the French government has ordered 12 Algerian consular and diplomatic agents to leave French territory.

In a statement issued by the Élysée Palace, France said it “takes note with consternation” of Algeria’s decision, calling it “unjustified and incomprehensible,” and denouncing it as a breach of fundamental judicial cooperation principles. “Algerian authorities bear full responsibility for a sudden and serious deterioration in our bilateral relations,” the statement reads.

Fragile Dialogue Undermined Amid Growing Tensions

In addition to the expulsions, French President Emmanuel Macron has recalled France’s ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, for consultations. The 12 French officials targeted by Algeria’s decision, made public on Sunday, are already en route back to France, according to diplomatic sources cited by BFMTV.

President Macron nevertheless reaffirmed his commitment to restoring a “demanding but constructive” dialogue with his Algerian counterpart, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, which had only recently resumed in late March. “Dialogue—yes, always—but not one-sided,” Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot posted on X.

Despite the growing crisis, France says it will continue to defend its core interests, particularly regarding national security and migration cooperation, while urging Algeria to show responsibility and help avoid a lasting rupture in bilateral relations.