France blames Algeria for prolonged diplomatic impasse

France's Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, announced that the French ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, remains in Paris since mid-April, indicating a continued diplomatic impasse between the two nations. 

Barrot attributed the stalemate to Algerian authorities, stating, "At this stage, the situation is blocked, and it's the responsibility of the Algerian authorities."

The diplomatic strain intensified following France's decision on April 15 to expel 12 Algerian diplomats and recall its ambassador, a move made in retaliation for Algeria's earlier expulsion of 12 French diplomats. 

The initial expulsions were linked to the arrest of an Algerian consular official in France, suspected of involvement in the 2024 abduction of Algerian dissident Amir Boukhors, also known as "Amir DZ" .

Further exacerbating tensions is the case of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who was arrested in Algeria in November 2024. 

Sansal, known for his critical views on the Algerian regime, was sentenced in March 2025 to five years in prison on charges of undermining national unity, following comments suggesting that Algeria's borders were shaped by French colonial policies to Morocco's detriment.

Sansal's detention has drawn international condemnation. French President Emmanuel Macron described it as "arbitrary" and called for his immediate release. Human rights organizations have also criticized Algeria's use of anti-terrorism laws to suppress dissent.

Despite a brief thaw in relations following a phone call between Presidents Macron and Abdelmadjid Tebboune in late March, the situation deteriorated again with the reciprocal expulsions and ongoing disputes over migration and human rights issues .

Barrot emphasized the need for dialogue, stating, "De-escalation is crucial for the benefit of both the Algerian and French peoples." However, with the ambassador still in Paris and no resolution in sight, the diplomatic rift between France and Algeria remains unresolved.