Overview

• Algeria has ordered 15 French diplomatic agents to leave, citing irregular positions, as confirmed by Algeria's press agency APS.
• French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot condemned the expulsions as unjustified and vowed an immediate, strong, and proportionate response.
• This follows a series of tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions, including mutual expulsions of 12 diplomats in April and the recall of ambassadors.
• Tensions between the two nations have escalated since France recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2024, a move opposed by Algeria.
• Historical grievances stemming from Algeria’s war of independence from France and recent security disputes, including the arrest of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, continue to strain relations.