This marked a true turning point, signifying an unprecedented hardening in Emmanuel Macron's approach to Algeria. According to a letter from the French president sent to Prime Minister François Bayrou on Wednesday, August 6, and revealed by daily newspaper Le Figaro, the head of state instructed Bayrou's government to demonstrate "more firmness and determination" in response to the "growing difficulties" Paris faces "regarding migration and security with Algeria." Macron has never before taken such a tough position toward Algiers, recommending a response that effectively amounts to retaliation.

"France must be strong and command respect," Macron wrote in his letter to Bayrou. This language is typically associated with Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, whose hardline position was thus validated. Macron's only nuance was his invitation to "show" France's "partners" the "respect it demands from them." Yet this seems largely symbolic. The president's suggested package of sanctions includes a politically charged measure: the "official suspension" of an agreement concerning official and diplomatic passports.

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