Paris warns of retaliatory measures as tensions escalate over abduction allegations and political asylum protections.
Algeria has ordered the expulsion of 12 French officials within 48 hours in a dramatic escalation of tensions with France, a move linked to the recent indictment of three Algerian nationals—including a consular official—by French prosecutors in connection with the alleged kidnapping of exiled influencer Amir Boukhors, also known as “Amir DZ.”
A Diplomatic Rift Reignites
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed the expulsion order on Monday, calling the decision “unacceptable” and warning that Paris would respond with “immediate” countermeasures if Algeria does not reverse its stance.
“I am asking Algerian authorities to abandon these expulsion measures,” Barrot said during a press briefing in Paris. “If the decision to send back our officials is maintained, we will have no other choice but to respond immediately.”
According to diplomatic sources cited by French media, the individuals ordered to leave Algeria include personnel from France’s interior ministry. The identities of the officials and their precise roles have not been disclosed, but sources say several were involved in intelligence and security coordination.
Abduction Allegations Spark Crisis
At the heart of the diplomatic standoff is the legal case unfolding in France. On Friday, French prosecutors formally indicted three Algerian nationals on charges related to the abduction of Amir Boukhors in April 2024. Among the accused is a consular official who allegedly used diplomatic cover to facilitate the operation.
Boukhors, who enjoys political asylum in France, is a well-known critic of the Algerian regime. With over a million followers on TikTok and a strong presence across social media platforms, he has frequently accused the Algerian government of corruption and human rights violations. His content has earned him a loyal following—and powerful adversaries.
The alleged kidnapping attempt occurred in a suburb of Paris, where Boukhors claims he was forcibly restrained and nearly transported out of the country before managing to escape. French authorities have since launched a criminal investigation, treating the incident as a breach of national sovereignty and international law.
Algeria Demands Extradition, Denies Allegations
The Algerian government has repeatedly denied any official involvement in the incident and condemned the legal proceedings as politically motivated. Authorities in Algiers insist Boukhors is a wanted fugitive, not a whistleblower.
Algeria has issued nine international arrest warrants for Boukhors on charges ranging from fraud to terrorism. Officials argue that France is harboring a criminal and ignoring legitimate extradition requests.
“Mr. Boukhors is not a political dissident—he is a fugitive from justice,” a spokesperson for the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement issued over the weekend. “We are deeply concerned by France’s failure to cooperate on matters of national security.”
The same statement made no direct reference to the expulsion order, but emphasized that Algeria reserves the right to take “all necessary diplomatic actions” to protect its sovereignty and legal interests.
A Fractured Relationship with Historical Luggage
The current diplomatic rift is the latest flare-up in a historically volatile relationship between France and Algeria. Though Algeria won its independence from French colonial rule in 1962, the two nations have struggled to forge a consistent partnership. Disputes over immigration, historical memory, and regional security have repeatedly stalled diplomatic progress.
In 2022, French President Emmanuel Macron attempted to reset relations with a visit to Algiers, pledging a “new era of cooperation.” Despite those overtures, mutual distrust has lingered, with both sides accusing the other of bad faith.
“The issue isn’t just Amir Boukhors or the consular indictments,” said Dr. Karim Benaïssa, a political analyst specializing in Franco-Algerian relations. “This is about a long-standing power struggle, and both governments are using this moment to assert control.”
Paris Weighs Its Options
In response to the expulsion, the French government is reportedly preparing a list of potential retaliatory measures, including the reciprocal expulsion of Algerian diplomats, the suspension of bilateral security agreements, and even sanctions targeting Algerian officials involved in the case.
A high-level meeting between senior French ministers is expected to take place within the next 48 hours to coordinate the response.
“This is not a situation we can allow to escalate unchecked,” said a French diplomatic source familiar with the matter. “But we will not tolerate intimidation on French soil, especially when it involves a politically protected individual.”
International Repercussions Possible
Observers warn that the standoff could spill into broader European and Mediterranean relations. France is a key EU player in North African affairs, and Algeria is a critical energy partner for Europe. Any prolonged deterioration in ties could have implications for trade, migration control, and counterterrorism efforts.
The European Commission has yet to issue a formal statement, though officials in Brussels are said to be closely monitoring the situation.
What’s Next
As the 48-hour deadline looms, diplomatic channels remain open but strained. Both nations are facing mounting domestic and international pressure to de-escalate. However, with neither side showing signs of backing down, a diplomatic showdown now appears all but certain.
“France and Algeria have been here before,” said Dr. Benaïssa. “But this time, the stakes are higher—and the margins for error are narrower.”
