Tensions between France and Algeria have escalated following French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau's threat to terminate immigration and visa agreements in response to Algeria's rejection of deportation demands.

Algeria has accused France of hypocrisy, claiming that it breaches more agreements than it accuses Algeria of violating.

In contrast, Macron has expressed a willingness to renegotiate existing agreements rather than terminate them, indicating a desire to ease tensions.

French President Emmanuel Macron criticized Algeria's military-led government for fostering anti-French sentiment, which has been exacerbated by Algeria's negative response to France's shift in support regarding the Western Sahara conflict.

Observers suggest that internal political interests in France, particularly with the upcoming 2027 elections, may be influencing the current conflict.

The deteriorating relations have led to broader discussions involving trade disputes, the treatment of imprisoned French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, and unresolved historical grievances.

The French Minister of Labor, Astrid Panosyan-Bouvet, indicated that further measures could include reducing work visas for Algerian nationals, emphasizing the impact of Algeria's rejection on French interests.

The Algerian News Agency reported that France pays disproportionately low rents for approximately 60 diplomatic properties in Algeria, further straining bilateral relations.

Retailleau's aggressive stance is seen as a strategic move to strengthen his position in the leadership contest of the Les Républicains party, even at the risk of straining relations with the Élysée.

Recent data revealed that less than 10% of French expulsion orders result in actual deportations, highlighting challenges in the enforcement of these orders.

This diplomatic crisis marks the first time France has publicly named Algerians slated for deportation, including serious offenders and TikTok influencers accused of inciting violence.

Macron faces a dilemma regarding whether to escalate the situation further, which could potentially lead to a diplomatic break with Algeria.