Algeria Demands Departure of 12 French Embassy Staff Amid Rising Tensions**

The expulsion order follows the indictment of three Algerians in connection with the abduction of a prominent critic of Algeria's government. Both nations are facing challenges in their diplomatic relations, with calls for dialogue after a controversial extradition case exacerbated tensions.**

Algeria has issued an expulsion order for 12 members of the French embassy, demanding their departure within 48 hours, according to France's foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot. This move comes in the wake of the recent indictment of three Algerians in France, one of whom holds a consular position. They are accused of involvement in the abduction of Amir Boukhors, a well-known critic of the Algerian government, who had reportedly been granted political asylum in France.

Barrot urged Algeria to reconsider the expulsion, emphasizing France's intent to "respond immediately" should the measures proceed. Boukhors, known widely as Amir DZ, had been living in France since 2016. In April 2024, he was reportedly abducted near Paris but released the next day. His lawyer, Eric Plouvier, revealed that Boukhors had faced serious threats, and in two previous incidents in 2022 and again before his abduction, he had been attacked under suspicious circumstances.

Algeria alleges that Boukhors is involved in fraud and terrorist affiliations, charges he vehemently denies. French courts previously rejected an extradition request from Algeria in 2022. The current incident adds to the growing list of disputes between the two countries, which have recently included the imprisonment of French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal for alleged crimes against Algerian sovereignty.

Tensions have escalated following Algeria's diplomatic actions, including recalling its ambassador from Paris after France supported Morocco's stance on the Western Sahara conflict. In response to the latest developments, Algeria's foreign ministry summoned French ambassador Stephane Romatet to convey its strong objections, labeling the diplomatic rift as part of a broader strategy to undermine reconciliation efforts between nations.

Despite the tension, there have been recent attempts to rebuild relations, including a phone conversation in March between French President Emmanuel Macron and his Algerian counterpart, Abdelmadjid Tebboun, to discuss the strained bilateral ties. Following a visit to Algeria, Barrot voiced hopes for a "new phase" in their relationship.