The relationship between Algeria and France has reached a breaking point. As we move into 2025, many believe this will be the year that marks the official diplomatic and political divorce between Paris and Algiers. No longer is the fracture merely symbolic or historical—it is now institutional, emotional, and dangerously public. And it is France that is feeling the shockwaves most deeply.
In recent days, the crisis has escalated dramatically. Algeria expelled 11 French diplomats, prompting a furious reaction in Paris. In a retaliatory move, French authorities arrested three Algerian employees working at the Algerian consulate in France—an unprecedented gesture in modern bilateral relations.
Amidst this turmoil, the French government itself appears to be split down the middle. President Emmanuel Macron continues to push for a diplomatic reset with Algiers, even after delivering a speech in Rabat in which he recognised Western Sahara as Moroccan—a clear red line for both the Algerian people and government. This has only added fuel to the fire and reinforced perceptions that Macron’s position is incoherent and detached from regional sensitivities.
Meanwhile, within the French cabinet, pressure is mounting. Bruno Retailleau, newly appointed as Minister of the Interior, made headlines by threatening to resign if Algeria refuses to take back its illegal immigrants currently residing in France. His statement reflects growing frustration within the French establishment, particularly from those who see Macron’s soft diplomatic approach as ineffective and even damaging.
Retailleau’s position has found support among segments of the public and political class who want tougher measures against North African countries that are seen as uncooperative on migration. His stance has deepened the political divide within France, with Macron’s circle pushing for strategic dialogue, while others call for pressure and sanctions.
But perhaps the most significant observation is this: Algeria is winning. France today has few tools left to influence Algiers. The days of using development funds or diplomatic leverage are over. Algeria has built new alliances—with China, Russia, Italy, Turkey, and several African nations. It is no longer reliant on France economically or politically.
Moreover, Algiers is dominating the media and narrative. Across the Arab world, Africa, and in many parts of the Global South, Algeria is seen as a sovereign state standing up to a former colonial power still clinging to outdated methods. This perception plays well for Algeria’s international image and further undermines France’s moral authority.
If France thought it could quietly manage the Algerian file behind closed doors, it has miscalculated. Macron’s balancing act between Rabat and Algiers has satisfied neither and alienated both. The result is a fractured foreign policy and a government at odds with itself.
With 2025 underway, one thing is clear: the Algerian issue is not just a foreign policy matter anymore—it is dividing France from within.
And this time, it is not Algeria that is shaken. It is France.
