France has pledged to take firm action in response to Algeria’s decision to expel 15 French diplomatic personnel, a move Paris has described as unjustified. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized that France would react swiftly and appropriately.

Relations between the two countries, historically tense due to their colonial past, have deteriorated further since last year. Tensions escalated after French President Emmanuel Macron publicly supported Morocco’s stance on the disputed Western Sahara, which angered Algiers.

Although there had been a brief improvement in relations following Barrot’s recent visit to the Algerian capital, diplomatic friction quickly resurfaced. A week later, both countries resumed reciprocal expulsions of diplomats.

According to Algeria’s state news agency, French diplomatic staff were declared to be in irregular positions and were ordered to leave the country. In turn, France previously recalled its ambassador and expelled 12 Algerian diplomatic staff following similar actions from Algeria.

Barrot expressed disappointment over the latest developments, stating the move benefits neither country. He highlighted the broader implications of the dispute, noting the close economic ties and the significant Algerian-origin population living in France.

He declined to elaborate on the exact measures France would take in response but reaffirmed that they would be both immediate and proportional.