Algeria has expelled two French intelligence officers accused of entering the country using forged diplomatic passports, in the latest escalation of tensions between Algiers and Paris.
State broadcaster Algeria International TV reported that the two individuals were affiliated with France’s Directorate of Internal Security, operating under the Interior Ministry. Authorities said the agents failed to follow legal entry procedures and used falsified diplomatic documents to gain access to Algerian territory.
The incident was described by the broadcaster as a “manoeuvre” allegedly orchestrated by French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. French officials have not yet commented publicly on the expulsions.
The move follows a series of diplomatic retaliations between the two countries. In early April, Algeria expelled 12 French embassy staff after a consular employee was arrested in Paris over suspected involvement in the kidnapping of an Algerian opposition figure. France responded by expelling 12 Algerian diplomats and recalling its ambassador for consultations.
These tit-for-tat actions come despite recent efforts to mend ties, including a late March phone call between Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and French President Emmanuel Macron, and a visit by French Minister of State for Europe Jean-Noël Barrot on April 6 to discuss renewed cooperation.
Relations between the two nations remain fragile, with longstanding tensions rooted in the legacy of France’s colonial rule over Algeria from 1830 to 1962.