The French-Algerian Crisis: Signs of Easing Amid Pressure and Accusations
The French-Algerian relationship is experiencing a deep crisis marked by political and diplomatic tensions, epitomized by the case of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal. French President Emmanuel Macron views resolving this issue as key to easing tensions between the two countries. Meanwhile, the Algerian regime finds itself cornered by international pressure and growing domestic demands.
Steps Toward Dialogue
The visit of Nicolas Lerner, Director of France’s External Intelligence Agency (DGSE), to Algeria was a step toward resuming dialogue between the two nations. Although the visit included media leaks, it was intended to signal Algeria’s willingness to de-escalate tensions with Paris. However, sensitive issues, including Sansal’s case, remain a thorn in Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s side. He faces two difficult choices: backtrack and risk domestic backlash, or press forward and face further international isolation.
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French Pressure and Threats
The dialogue has been accompanied by clear French threats. French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, for example, proposed imposing visa restrictions on Algerian diplomatic passport holders and hinted at exposing “illicit Algerian assets” in France. These moves aim to increase pressure on Algeria’s ruling elite.
The crisis has also exposed divisions within the French political spectrum. Right-wing and far-right factions view the Algerian regime as a threat, while parts of the left, especially those aligned with “La France Insoumise,” adopt a more lenient stance, sometimes even
