Algeria has strongly criticized France’s new sanctions, calling them “provocation” and part of “a long series of threats and harassment.” In a statement, Algeria’s Foreign Ministry accused France of escalating tensions and failing to provide official notice of the sanctions, which Algeria claims violates diplomatic agreements. The ministry stressed that these sanctions would have “no impact” on Algeria’s stability and that the country would not bow to external pressure.
The dispute escalated after French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the sanctions on Tuesday during an interview with BFMTV. The sanctions target certain Algerian officials with “restrictions on movement and access to national territory.” Barrot stated that these measures are “reversible” and would be lifted once Algeria cooperates with France’s demands. However, he warned that more actions could follow if no progress is made. In an attempt to ease tensions, Barrot expressed willingness to visit Algeria to discuss the issue.
The sanctions were imposed following Algeria’s refusal to take back illegal migrants deported from France, including the suspect linked to a recent attack in Mulhouse. On Saturday, an Algerian national under a deportation order fatally stabbed one person and injured five others near a market in Mulhouse. French authorities labeled the attack a “terrorist act.” Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau revealed that Algeria had refused to accept the suspect ten times, prompting calls for a shift in the “balance of power” with Algeria.
Additionally, the sanctions are linked to Algeria’s imprisonment of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, adding another layer to the already tense relationship. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou urged Algeria to reconsider the 1968 immigration agreements, which grant Algerian nationals special privileges in France. These agreements were signed six years after Algeria gained independence from France. Bayrou emphasized the need to update these policies while maintaining diplomatic ties but warned against escalating the dispute further.
Tensions between Algeria and France are rooted in a painful colonial past. France ruled Algeria from 1830 to 1962, a period marked by exploitation and human rights abuses. Algeria continues to seek justice for France’s colonial actions, including the 1961 massacre of Algerian independence protesters by French police in Paris. These unresolved historical grievances continue to impact diplomatic relations today.
The future of Algeria-France relations remains uncertain as both countries navigate this complex political landscape. They can either continue on this confrontational path or seek a diplomatic solution that addresses historical grievances while tackling modern political challenges.