Algeria releases novelist Boualem Sansal

Almost a year after his arrest in Algeria, French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal has been pardoned and allowed to leave the country, following a request from German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier due to Sansal’s age and health concerns. His release, celebrated by French President Emmanuel Macron, comes amid ongoing tensions between Algeria and France, exacerbated by diplomatic spats and recent incidents involving their citizens. Sansal, who was sentenced to five years for undermining national unity, is now en route to Germany for medical treatment. Diplomatic efforts continue, with hopes for the release of other detained individuals.

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