France has issued a stern warning to Algeria following reports that Algerian authorities are threatening to expel 12 French diplomatic staff in the latest episode of growing friction between the two nations. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed the threat on Monday, stating that if Algeria proceeds with the expulsions, France will retaliate immediately.

This diplomatic row follows a protest from Algeria over the arrest of one of its consular agents in France. The agent is under investigation—along with two other individuals—for alleged involvement in the kidnapping of Algerian political dissident Amir Boukhors, a government opponent living in exile. French media reported that the abduction case, which sparked outrage among human rights groups, prompted French authorities to take legal action, including the detention of the consular official.

Barrot revealed that Algeria has formally demanded the departure of 12 French diplomatic personnel within 48 hours, although Algerian officials have yet to publicly confirm the move. France, viewing the potential expulsions as a serious escalation, has signaled it will respond in kind should the demand be enforced.

The diplomatic standoff is the latest in a series of confrontations between Paris and Algiers, whose relationship has long been shaped by a fraught colonial legacy and deep-seated political distrust. Tensions notably worsened in 2024 when French President Emmanuel Macron voiced support for Morocco's claims over Western Sahara, a stance that directly contradicted Algeria’s position and further strained bilateral ties.

Observers see this incident as a reflection of the increasing volatility in France-Algeria relations, where disputes over sovereignty, regional influence, and mutual suspicion have made diplomatic cooperation fragile. The kidnapping case has added fuel to a fire that was already smoldering under the surface.

As both countries weigh their next steps, analysts warn that tit-for-tat expulsions could cripple diplomatic engagement and disrupt broader cooperation, including on regional security and migration. All eyes now turn to whether Algeria follows through on its threat—and how France will choose to respond.