An Algerian appeals court has confirmed a five-year prison sentence for Boualem Sansal, a renowned French-Algerian writer, intensifying diplomatic strains between Algeria and France. The Algiers Court of Appeal also imposed a fine of 500,000 Algerian dinars (approximately $3,851) on Sansal, rejecting a prosecutor's request to extend his imprisonment to ten years.

Boualem Sansal, 80, was detained at Algiers International Airport on November 16, 2024, shortly after arriving from Paris. His arrest followed controversial remarks made during an interview with a French media outlet, where he questioned the historical legitimacy of Algeria's western borders with Morocco. Charged under Article 87 bis of the Algerian Penal Code, Sansal's comments were deemed to undermine national unity, a charge that has been widely criticized by international human rights groups and UN experts as a tool to suppress dissent.

Sansal's health has been a significant concern during his detention, marked by multiple hospitalizations. After his arrest, he was held incommunicado, denied access to both his family and legal representation, raising serious human rights concerns.

The international community, including French President Emmanuel Macron and the European Parliament, has voiced strong opposition to Sansal's detention. Macron has urged Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to show "mercy and humanity," while the European Parliament has demanded his "immediate and unconditional release," labeling the charges as politically motivated.

This judicial decision comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between France and Algeria, primarily due to France's increasing engagement with Morocco, including its support for Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. This stance contrasts with Algeria's backing of the Sahrawi independence movement, further complicating relations as Algeria hosts a significant number of Sahrawi refugees.

The ruling not only underscores the ongoing challenges facing freedom of expression in Algeria but also poses potential repercussions for Algerian-French relations, highlighting the intricate interplay of international diplomacy and domestic policy.