In a dramatic turn of events, Algeria has ordered 12 staff from the French embassy to exit the country within 48 hours, as confirmed by France's foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot.

This bold expulsion is believed to be directly tied to the indictment of three Algerian nationals in France, including a consular official. They face serious allegations surrounding the abduction of Amir Boukhors, a prominent critic of the Algerian government, who boasts over a million followers online.

Boukhors, also known as Amir DZ, has lived in France since 2016 and has recently been granted asylum there. His controversial abduction took place in April 2024 in southern Paris, only for him to be released the next day under puzzling circumstances, involving claims that he was kidnapped by individuals impersonating police.

Algerian authorities have labeled Boukhors a "saboteur linked to terrorist groups," issuing multiple international arrest warrants against him. Despite these serious accusations, French courts previously denied Algeria’s extradition requests.

This incident adds to a mounting list of grievances that have strained relations between France and Algeria. Recent tensions include the detention of French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal in Algeria and last year’s diplomatic fallout after France supported Morocco's claims in the Western Sahara conflict.

Responding to Algeria’s ultimatum, Barrot urged the Algerian government to reconsider its decision, warning of immediate repercussions if the expulsion goes through. He indicated that the backdrop to these expulsions is the ongoing legal issues surrounding the three Algerian officials, who face charges including kidnapping and links to terrorism.

In a related diplomatic maneuver, Algeria's foreign ministry summoned French ambassador Stéphane Romatet to lodge a formal protest, arguing that the charges and subsequent actions are part of a larger strategy to undermine burgeoning bilateral relations.

There have been glimmers of hope for reconciliation, as demonstrated by a recent phone call between French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, signaling a desire to mend fences after months of escalating discord.

As this diplomatic crisis unfolds, all eyes will be on how both nations navigate this tumultuous chapter in their complex relationship.