France-Algeria relations stall amid rising tensions

France and Algeria remain locked in a diplomatic impasse, with tensions escalating over mutual accusations of espionage and strained security cooperation. A high-level meeting at the Elysée Palace, led by President Emmanuel Macron, is expected to chart the path forward, including potential punitive measures such as suspending Algeria’s elite visa privileges and freezing financial aid.

According to Le Figaro, a recent visit by France’s intelligence director, Nicolas Merler, to Algeria failed to produce concrete results, underscoring the deadlock. The trip, intended to reopen security cooperation channels, amounted to little more than an exchange of positions.

The crisis deepened after Algeria refused to accept activist Boualem Nomane, deported from France for promoting extremism. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau accused Algeria of attempting to “humiliate France,” warning of possible retaliation.

With significant Algerian communities in France, the outcome of Macron’s deliberations could have wide-reaching implications for bilateral relations.