France Expels Algerian Diplomats Without Valid Visas Amid Rising Tensions

French authorities have confirmed the expulsion of Algerian nationals holding diplomatic passports but lacking valid visas, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing diplomatic strain between the two countries.

France Responds to Algeria's Demands

While the exact number of expelled Algerian diplomats was not disclosed, France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, stated that the country’s actions were a measured and proportional response.

“Our response is immediate, it is firm and it is strictly proportionate at this stage, with the same request — that is to say, the return to Algeria of all agents holding diplomatic passports who do not currently have a visa.”
— Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of France

Minister Barrot added that France has formally informed the Algerian chargé d’affaires of its decision, as reported by Radio France Internationale. He also emphasized that this measure was in response to Algeria’s recent demands, labeling Algeria’s actions as "unjustified."

“We also informed him that we reserve the right to take further measures depending on how the situation develops. The Algerians wanted to dismiss our agents. We are dismissing theirs.”
— Jean-Noël Barrot

Algeria Previously Ordered Expulsion of French Officials

The diplomatic standoff intensified on May 11, when Algerian authorities demanded the immediate expulsion of 15 French officials. These individuals had been deployed to Algeria as temporary visa sector reinforcements, following staffing shortages since mid-April.

Algeria accused France of failing to establish proper procedures for assigning personnel to its diplomatic and consular missions and stated that the French employees had been appointed under irregular conditions.

France Labels Algeria's Move Unilateral

In response, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs called Algeria’s actions unilateral, stating that the decision to expel French officials was made without mutual agreement. The Ministry also noted that diplomatic relations between France and Algeria have remained frozen since Algeria expelled 12 French officials last month.

This latest round of reciprocal expulsions reflects a deepening rift between the two nations, with both sides asserting sovereignty over diplomatic assignments and administrative procedures.