France prepares mass deportation of Algerian nationals with "Dangerous profiles"

France is preparing to deport "several hundred" Algerian nationals deemed to have "dangerous profiles," according to an announcement made on Monday by French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. 

The move comes as part of a "graduated response" strategy toward Algeria, amid a deepening diplomatic crisis between the two nations.

Tensions have escalated following Algeria's refusal to accept irregular migrants deported by France, including the perpetrator of a terrorist attack in Mulhouse on February 22, which resulted in the death of a Portuguese national. Relations between the two countries have been strained since July 2024, when France recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, a move that angered Algeria.

"What I want is for Algeria, (...) to guarantee the safety of the French people, to take back its nationals, in accordance with international law," Retailleau stated. 

He emphasized that the individuals on the list pose a threat "because they have committed public order offenses or because they are listed in our database of radicalized individuals for terrorism." He added that Algeria's response to this demand "will be the test of truth."

Retailleau also criticized Algeria for "unilaterally failing to respect international agreements," specifically the 1944 Chicago Convention and the 1994 bilateral agreement with France, which stipulates that "an Algerian national must be accepted by Algeria." 

He expressed frustration over the Mulhouse attack, stating, "I do not want what happened in Mulhouse to happen again tomorrow (...) The terrorist who killed a Portuguese national should have been in Algeria. We had presented him multiple times to the Algerians, who refused to take him back."

The Interior Minister also addressed the controversy surrounding the issuance of visas for imams, primarily from Morocco but also from Algeria, to visit France during Ramadan. 

He defended the practice, stating, "There is no paradox here. It is Ramadan, and for decades we have been granting facilities to imams and chanters who come for 40 days and are strictly controlled." Retailleau added that he prefers "people who come for a short period rather than self-proclaimed imams who preach hate."

The diplomatic rift has drawn attention from the highest levels of the French government. Last Friday, President Emmanuel Macron attempted to ease tensions, calling for the resolution of the case of Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who remains detained in Algeria, as a gesture of "trust." 

Macron also clarified that France has no intention of denouncing the 1968 agreements, which grant Algerian nationals special status in France regarding movement, residence, and employment. These agreements have become a contentious issue, even within Macron's own camp.

Criticism of Algeria's Stance

Algeria's refusal to cooperate with France on the deportation of dangerous individuals raises serious concerns about its commitment to international law and bilateral agreements. 

By rejecting the return of its own nationals, including those involved in terrorism, Algeria is not only undermining its obligations but also jeopardizing the safety of French citizens. The Mulhouse attack is a tragic example of the consequences of such negligence.

Moreover, Algeria's unilateral disregard for international agreements, particularly the 1994 accord with France, sets a dangerous precedent. 

It suggests a willingness to prioritize political grievances over global security and cooperation. This stance is particularly troubling given the rise of transnational terrorism and the need for international collaboration to combat it.

While France has shown goodwill by facilitating the entry of imams during Ramadan—a gesture aimed at fostering cultural and religious understanding—Algeria's intransigence on critical security matters stands in stark contrast. 

The Algerian government must recognize that its refusal to accept deported nationals not only strains diplomatic relations but also undermines its own credibility on the global stage.

In conclusion, Algeria's actions in this crisis are indefensible. By failing to uphold its international commitments and refusing to take back dangerous individuals, Algeria is contributing to a climate of insecurity. 

It is imperative that Algeria reconsiders its position and works with France to address these pressing security concerns, for the sake of both nations and the broader international community.