Diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria are intensifying. After Marseille and Montpellier, Algiers has decided to suspend its consular relations with the city of Nice and the authorities of the Alpes-Maritimes. This decision leads to the cessation of consular hearings of Algerian nationals held in administrative detention centers as well as the suspension of the passes required for their expulsion.
This measure is part of a climate of growing tension between the two countries. For several weeks, Algeria has refused to take back several of its illegal nationals, some of whom have been convicted in France. To date, 23 Algerians subject to an obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) have not been able to be expelled due to lack of cooperation from Algiers.
This situation is exasperating the French government. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau recently denounced this impasse and announced the implementation of a "graduated response". A list of several hundred people in an irregular situation and deemed dangerous is currently being drawn up and will soon be submitted to the Algerian authorities.
With this new suspension of consular relations, the standoff between Paris and Algiers has reached an unprecedented level. It remains to be seen what the next diplomatic responses of the two countries will be in this explosive issue.
