Relations between France and Algeria have sharply worsened, with Algeria accusing the rise of the French far right of deepening tensions between the two nations. In a strong statement, Algeria’s foreign ministry said the country had become a battleground for France’s internal political disputes, accusing the far right of being the instigator of the growing rift and holding French-Algerian relations hostage.
The two countries’ strained relationship dates back to July, when France recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara, a move that angered Algeria, which backs the pro-independence Polisario Front’s claims to the region. This led Algeria to recall its ambassador from Paris.
Tensions escalated in November when Algeria arrested French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal on national security charges after he made controversial remarks about Morocco’s territory in a French far-right media outlet.
Diplomatic relations worsened further due to a series of expulsions of Algerians from France, with Algeria refusing to accept some of the deportees, including one involved in a deadly knife attack in Mulhouse.
In response to France’s threats to cancel a long-standing mobility agreement, Algeria said it categorically rejects ultimatums and threats and would apply strict and immediate reciprocity to all restrictions. France, however, maintains it will not apologise for its colonial past, which remains a major point of contention.
Political analysts suggest that France’s tactics, including sanctions, are unlikely to restore calm or pressure Algeria into compliance. The crisis risks impacting economic exchanges and security cooperation, especially as Algeria remains a key gas supplier to France.
