France Suspends Algeria Visa Deal amid Diplomatic Tensions

France and Algeria are embroiled in escalating diplomatic tensions marked by France's recent decision to tighten visa restrictions on Algerian diplomats. French President Emmanuel Macron ordered the suspension of a 2013 visa exemption agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders, citing growing migration and security challenges, especially Algeria's refusal to accept deported nationals and incidents involving Algerian citizens in France. Macron's administration has also sought support from Schengen zone countries to enforce stricter visa policies, requiring consultation with France on short-stay visas for Algerian officials. This dispute follows France's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2024, a move that has deeply strained relations with Algeria. In response to France's suspension, Algeria reacted by terminating the bilateral visa exemption deal entirely, accusing France of distorting reality and unfairly blaming Algeria for the deterioration of ties. The diplomatic rift is further aggravated by Algeria's detention of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who was sentenced for supporting Morocco's territorial claims, underscoring the complex geopolitical tensions underlying the visa and migration disputes.