Tensions between France and Algeria could be heading toward a new escalation. According to L'Express, Paris is considering freezing the assets of «about twenty dignitaries» of the Algerian regime. This measure could be implemented in the event of further deterioration in relations between the two countries—a threat reportedly raised by the French Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau. «According to our information, this option is being seriously considered, both at Bercy (Ministry of Finance) and Beauvau (Ministry of the Interior). A list of 'about twenty dignitaries' has been drawn up», a government source told L'Express. These individuals hold key positions in the Algerian administration, security apparatus, and political system, while also owning properties or financial assets in France. «It is estimated that 801 members of the Algerian nomenklatura have financial interests in France and visit regularly. This figure does not include military personnel», the magazine added. The potential sanctions are reportedly being considered as «a response to Algiers' refusal to take back several of its nationals under an obligation to leave French territory (OQTF). The idea within the government is to use this list of twenty dignitaries as a last resort in diplomatic negotiations between the two countries», according to L'Express. A first measure was already taken on May 16, when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs suspended a 2007 agreement allowing holders of diplomatic passports to travel freely between the two countries without a visa. The current crisis between Paris and Algiers was sparked by President Emmanuel Macron's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara on July 30. The arrest of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal in Algiers on November 16 further strained relations.
