There are red lines that no one can cross with impunity. The current diplomatic crisis between France and Algeria is clear proof of this. Even Benjamin Stora, a keen observer of the tumultuous relations between the two countries, recently emphasized it: this crisis is the most serious since the nationalization of hydrocarbons in 1972. An alarming observation, but hardly surprising given that France’s attitude borders on arrogance and contempt for Algeria’s vital interests.
Beyond diplomatic niceties and empty promises, one truth stands out: Paris has betrayed its 2022 commitments. And it is precisely this duplicity that makes any return to the previous framework illusory. How can Jean-Noël Barrot seriously imagine that Algeria will adhere to the 2022 roadmap when France itself has violated its fundamental commitments? One of these commitments was clear: never to undermine Algeria’s strategic and vital interests. Today, it is evident that this commitment has been trampled without hesitation.
Western Sahara: An Uncrossable Red Line
The Western Sahara issue is a glaring example of this violation. Jean-Noël Barrot’s statement that this matter does not concern Algeria is an insult to intelligence and a denial of reality. How can he claim that this issue does not affect Algeria when hundreds of thousands of Sahrawi refugees live on our territory? How can one ignore that the outcome of this conflict could have direct consequences on Algeria’s internal stability?
Western Sahara is not just a distant diplomatic issue; it is a matter of national security. Allowing Morocco to impose a fait accompli, with France’s tacit blessing, is akin to opening the door to Moroccan territorial claims over the Algerian provinces of Tindouf and Béchar. History teaches us that expansionism never stops where it begins. Today, it is Western Sahara. And tomorrow?
By supporting Morocco against international law, France is not merely ignoring Algeria—it is sending a message of defiance and provocation. Accepting this policy means accepting the destabilization of an already fragile region and, more importantly, becoming complicit in a dangerous geopolitical precedent.
Algeria Will Not Yield, No Matter the Consequences
Algeria has always defended its interests with firmness and consistency. We proved it with Spain, which, after adopting a hostile position on Western Sahara, was forced to reconsider due to Algeria’s unwavering stance. If France persists on this path, it will face the same outcome.
Let’s be clear: unless France reconsiders its position on Western Sahara, there will be no return to normalcy. Franco-Algerian relations will remain frozen, and any attempt at dialogue will be doomed to failure. Algeria has principles, it has interests, and it will defend them at any cost.
France must understand one essential thing: the era of paternalism and diktats is over. Algeria is no longer a vassal state that can be manipulated to serve the Élysée’s interests. It is a regional power that knows where its interests lie and will not tolerate any infringement on its sovereignty.
Paris must make a choice: persist in its strategic blindness and watch its relations with Algiers deteriorate irreversibly, or adjust its stance before it is too late. Algeria, for its part, has already made its choice.
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