Macron Urges Algeria to Release Jailed Writer Boualem Sansal

French President Emmanuel Macron urged Algeria to release Boualem Sansal, a French-Algerian writer sentenced to five years in prison for undermining national unity. Macron appealed for humanitarian considerations, highlighting Sansal's need for medical treatment due to illness, during a press conference.

French President Emmanuel Macron made a public appeal on Thursday for the release of Boualem Sansal, a French-Algerian writer imprisoned by Algerian authorities. Sansal was sentenced to five years for charges of undermining national unity.

Macron, speaking at a news conference, expressed his hope for a humanitarian response from Algeria's highest authorities, emphasizing the need to grant Sansal his freedom. The president also highlighted the writer's critical health condition, which requires urgent medical treatment.

The call for Sansal's release reflects ongoing tensions and the complex relationship between France and Algeria, as well as broader issues of free expression and human rights in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)