Algeria expelled 12 French officials in response to the arrest of three Algerian nationals in France, straining bilateral relations

Relations between France and Algeria have again been affected by the expulsion of 12 French officials by the Algerian authorities in reaction to the arrest of three Algerian nationals in France on charges of attempted kidnapping. Although tense, French diplomatic sources say contacts are continuing and Paris wants calm to return. France's foreign ministry has called on Algeria to halt the expulsions, warning that a confirmation of the expulsions would lead to reprisals. The situation complicates recent efforts to improve bilateral relations.