French-Algerian Writer Jailed for Five Years Amid Diplomatic Tensions
An Algerian court has sentenced French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal to five years in prison for undermining Algeria’s territorial integrity. His comments in a French far-right media interview, suggesting France unfairly ceded Moroccan land to Algeria, sparked backlash from Algerian authorities.
Sansal’s arrest in November deepened tensions between Algeria and France, with French President Emmanuel Macron calling the charges “not serious” and urging his release, citing the writer’s fragile health.
The trial has drawn widespread support from French intellectuals, while Algerian authorities view it as part of broader diplomatic strains. Analysts speculate Sansal may receive a presidential pardon during upcoming holidays.
