Algeria Scraps Visa Waiver for French Diplomats in Escalating Dispute

Algeria on Thursday revoked a 2013 visa exemption for French diplomatic and service passport holders, retaliating after Paris unilaterally suspended the deal. The Foreign Ministry said France had originally proposed the agreement and would now face reciprocal visa rules.

Algeria accused France of "unacceptable blackmail" by using visas to pressure migrant deportations, violating rights and bilateral pacts. It also cited France's "pressure tactics," including threats and unilateral moves, instead of dialogue.