12.05.2025 17:02
The diplomatic tension between Algeria and France continues. Most recently, Algeria demanded that 15 individuals assigned to France's diplomatic and consular missions leave the country immediately, citing that their appointments were "in violation of the applicable procedures."
According to a report by Algeria's official news agency APS, based on unnamed sources, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned France's Chargé d'Affaires in Algeria yesterday, informing that 15 individuals assigned to diplomatic and consular missions were 'appointed in violation of valid rules.'
THEY WERE REQUESTED TO LEAVE THE COUNTRY IMMEDIATELY
The report stated that these individuals were requested to leave the country immediately, noting that the French side had recently engaged in "serious and repeated violations," and that the diplomatic customs and procedures stipulated in international agreements were clearly violated during the appointment process of these individuals.
ALLEGATION OF 'DIPLOMATIC PASSPORT'
Officials stated that it was determined that the necessary official notifications or accreditation requests for the 15 French citizens in question were not made before they began their diplomatic or consular duties. It was also noted that these individuals previously held "service passports," but were later facilitated entry into Algeria by being granted diplomatic passports.
MUTUAL DIPLOMATIC SANCTIONS
This development became the latest link in the diplomatic tensions that have been ongoing between the two countries for months. APS reported that the French side had repeatedly denied entry to Algerian diplomatic passport holders and had left the accreditation process of two consuls in Paris and Marseille, along with seven other consuls, unresolved for more than five months.
On the other hand, the Algerian government announced yesterday that it had expelled two individuals working in the Internal Security Directorate under the French Ministry of the Interior for "entering the country with fake diplomatic passports." Earlier in April, Algeria had expelled 12 French diplomatic staff in response to the detention of an Algerian consular employee in Paris. In retaliation, France expelled 12 Algerian diplomats and recalled the Algerian Ambassador for consultations.
Relations between Algeria and France have frequently been disrupted by crises in recent years. In July 2023, France's support for Morocco's autonomy plan regarding Western Sahara led to Algeria recalling its Ambassador to Paris.