France Threatens Retaliation if Algeria Expels French Officials Amid Diplomatic Tensions

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated on Monday that France would retaliate if Algeria expels 12 French officials. This follows a diplomatic dispute related to the arrest of three Algerian nationals in France.

Barrot mentioned that Algerian authorities had reportedly demanded the 12 French officials depart Algeria within 48 hours. He urged Algerian authorities to reconsider these expulsion measures.

The potential expulsion follows Algeria's protest against France's detention of an Algerian consular agent. The agent is suspected of involvement in the kidnapping of an Algerian influencer in April of the previous year.