French Interior Minister Retailleau Threatens Resignation Over Algeria Deportation Standoff
Bruno Retailleau vows to uphold a hardline stance on deporting Algerian nationals, citing national security concerns and the need for a 'graduated response' if Algeria refuses cooperation.
- Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has threatened to resign if the French government fails to maintain a firm approach toward Algeria over the deportation of Algerian nationals in irregular situations.
- Retailleau advocates for a 'graduated response,' including potentially revising the 1968 bilateral agreement, if Algeria continues to refuse the return of its nationals flagged as security risks.
- The French government recently submitted a list of 60 Algerian nationals for deportation, following an incident in Mulhouse involving an Algerian under an OQTF (Obligation to Leave the Territory).
- Retailleau's hardline stance has drawn criticism from opposition parties, with some calling for his resignation, and has also sparked internal government discussions on the best approach to manage France-Algeria relations.
- The minister is simultaneously working to pass a key anti-narcotrafficking law in the National Assembly, a move he sees as critical to addressing organized crime in France.
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