Royal, who currently serves as president of the Algerian-French Friendship Association, did not hesitate to link France’s economic difficulties—particularly rising energy costs—to the "absurd" diplomatic conflict with Algeria, one of the region’s largest gas producers.
A Fiery Post Revealing the "Absurdity" of the Conflict
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the former 2007 French presidential candidate wrote: "In light of the sharp rise in energy prices, the absurdity of the conflict with our gas-producing neighbors, such as Algeria, becomes clear. Italy is turning toward Algeria, while the far right and the right, including Bruno Retailleau and their allies, continue to insult this country, and Emmanuel Macron suspended diplomatic relations without valid reason."
She added: "Global chaos reminds us once again of this principle: understanding with neighbors is the foundation of peace and development."
Pointing the Finger at Paris and "Insulting Algeria"
Royal’s remarks come amid a severe diplomatic crisis between France and Algeria that has unfolded over recent months, marked by mutual decisions, ambassador recalls, and sharp statements from both sides.
During a visit to Algeria on January 25, 2025, which lasted several days and included a meeting with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Royal had already blamed the deterioration of relations on the French right and far right, as well as on President Macron, accusing certain politicians in her country of "insulting Algeria."
A Comparison with Italy: A Lesson in "Understanding with Neighbors"
Royal did not hide her admiration for Italy’s approach toward Algeria, noting that Italy has managed to maintain strong strategic energy ties with Algeria, allowing it to secure its gas needs while France suffers from the repercussions of rising prices.
This comparison is far from incidental. Italy is now one of the biggest beneficiaries of Algerian gas, after Eni signed strategic contracts with Algeria’s Sonatrach, making it a key alternative to Russian gas amid the war in Ukraine and its impact on European energy markets.
The Middle East War and the "Absurd" Conflict
In her analysis, Royal linked three sensitive issues: rising energy prices in France, the ongoing war in the Middle East, and the "absurdity" of the French-Algerian conflict.
The reference to the Middle East war signals Royal’s view that the world is experiencing a state of chaos and instability, calling for wiser, more balanced foreign policies based on "understanding with neighbors" rather than engaging in side conflicts that harm national interests.
Criticism of Retailleau and Macron
Royal directly targeted prominent French figures, including Bruno Retailleau, former head of the French-Algerian friendship group in the French Senate, who is known for his hardline stance toward Algeria, as well as President Macron, whom she accused of "suspending diplomatic relations without valid reason."
These criticisms reflect a split within the French elite regarding how to handle Algeria. One camp, represented by Royal, believes that continued hostile policies will isolate France from a strategic partner in energy and regional security, while another camp insists on a more confrontational approach.
Economic and Political Implications
Royal’s statements come at a time when France is under significant economic strain, with energy prices having risen sharply in recent weeks, affecting French households’ purchasing power and fueling social tensions.
They also come ahead of key political deadlines in France, as the country prepares for crucial European elections, making the issue of relations with Algeria a point of political contention among various factions.
A Call for Policy Review
Royal’s message ultimately argues that the time has come for France to reassess its policies toward Algeria and return to a language of understanding and dialogue—especially amid complex regional and international circumstances that call for closer cooperation between neighbors.
The question remains whether these calls will resonate at the Élysée Palace and among France’s political right, or whether the path of escalation will continue to dominate relations between Paris and Algiers—with potential consequences for France’s energy security in the future.