French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot Announces Sanctions Against Algeria Over Expulsions and Boualem Sansal Case
French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot announced new sanctions against Algeria, citing its refusal to accept expelled nationals and the detention of writer Boualem Sansal. While Barrot emphasizes a desire for dialogue, he warns of further measures if tensions persist, highlighting a complex Franco-Algerian relationship amid ongoing disputes.
hassan benyoub 
Paris, February 25, 2025 – French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot has unveiled new sanctions against Algeria amid a deepening diplomatic rift, signaling readiness to escalate measures if tensions persist. In an interview on BFMTV, Barrot revealed restrictions on movement and access to French territory for certain Algerian dignitaries, citing Algeria’s refusal to accept expelled nationals and the ongoing detention of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal as key triggers.
Sanctions Sparked by Dual Disputes
Barrot justified the measures, pointing to Algeria’s rejection of its citizens expelled from France, including the assailant behind the Mulhouse attack, and the “arbitrary” imprisonment of Sansal, a prominent author and critic of the Algerian regime. “These are reversible measures that will cease once the cooperation we seek resumes,” Barrot stated, emphasizing a desire for dialogue. However, he warned, “If no progress is observed, I am prepared to take further steps.”
The minister’s announcement comes as Algeria has consistently declined to repatriate irregular migrants expelled from France, exacerbating bilateral tensions. The case of Sansal, arrested in mid-November 2024 on charges of undermining state security, has further fueled the crisis, with Paris viewing his detention as a violation of free expression.
A Diplomatic Balancing Act
Despite the firm stance, Barrot adopted a more measured tone compared to Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who has advocated for a tougher “power struggle” with Algiers. “It’s not always with the harshest tools that we achieve results,” Barrot cautioned, noting past instances where a hardline approach reduced expulsion numbers. He expressed willingness to travel to Algiers, saying, “I’m ready to go if it can unlock certain situations,” highlighting a preference for negotiation over confrontation.
Background: A Strained Relationship
The Franco-Algerian relationship has been on edge since July 2024, when Algeria recalled its ambassador over France’s support for Morocco’s Western Sahara autonomy plan. The Sansal case intensified the standoff, with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune labeling him an “impostor” sent by France. Meanwhile, the expulsion issue gained prominence after Algeria refused entry to an influencer deported from France, prompting Paris to reconsider its approach.
What’s Next?
Barrot’s sanctions mark a significant escalation, yet their reversibility suggests room for de-escalation if Algeria shifts its position. The minister’s openness to dialogue contrasts with growing calls in France for stricter measures, including visa restrictions and aid cuts. As Sansal remains in custody—now over 100 days since his arrest—and expulsions falter, the coming weeks will test whether diplomacy or further sanctions will define this latest chapter in Franco-Algerian relations.
