France Imposes Entry Restrictions on Algerians Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions
Paris tightens measures against Algerian figures following a deadly attack, escalating long-standing tensions between the two nations.
Watan-The diplomatic crisis between France and Algeria is escalating as Paris imposes entry restrictions on Algerian figures, further complicating already tense relations between the two countries. This move comes just days after a shooting in the French city of Mulhouse, carried out by an undocumented Algerian migrant, which resulted in one death and five injuries.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced the decision without disclosing the number of individuals targeted or providing additional details on the restrictions. However, he emphasized that France is prepared to take further measures if Franco-Algerian cooperation is not resumed, signaling a potential escalation in the near future.
France-Algeria Tensions Escalate Over Visa Policy and Political Disputes
The Mulhouse attack has fueled anger in Paris, especially since France has repeatedly requested that Algeria take back the perpetrator, a request that Algerian authorities have consistently refused. This repeated rejection ha sparked strong criticism in French political circles, with growing calls to reassess the bilateral relationship.
French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has called for the cancellation of the 2013 agreement that allows the Algerian elite to travel to France without a visa, reflecting Paris’ intention to tighten its stance against influential Algerian figures.
Tensions between the two nations go beyond this issue, as several other sensitive matters have deepened the discord. These include France’s position on Western Sahara, the detention of Algerian-French writer Boualem Sansal in Algeria, and the recent arrest and deportation of Algerian influencer Naouman Boualem, whom Algeria refused to accept, sending him back to France on the same day—a move seen as a clear escalation.
Paris’ decision to impose restrictions on Algerians appears to be an attempt to pressure President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s government. However, it also risks further straining the already fragile relationship between the two countries. The coming days will reveal whether these measures will lead to greater diplomatic rupture or if both sides will seek to de-escalate the crisis and find diplomatic solutions.
