France Imposes Visa Restrictions on Algerian Officials in Escalating Diplomatic Dispute

French-Algerian tensions deepen following Mulhouse attack and disagreements over deportations and diplomatic cooperation.

France has introduced visa restrictions targeting certain Algerian dignitaries, citing Algeria's refusal to accept deported nationals and other diplomatic grievances.
The measures, described as reversible, were announced by Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, who emphasized their link to Algeria's cooperation on deportations and other issues.
Tensions between the two nations have intensified after a deadly knife attack in Mulhouse, allegedly committed by an Algerian national whom Algeria refused to repatriate despite multiple requests.
The French government remains divided, with some officials advocating a hardline stance, including revisiting the 1968 Franco-Algerian treaty, while others favor diplomacy.
Prime Minister François Bayrou will lead an interministerial meeting today to address immigration policies, with Algeria's cooperation expected to be a central topic of discussion.