Algerian Author Boalam Sansal Speaks Out After Imprisonment Over Support for Israel

Boalam Sansal, an Algerian-French writer known for his criticism of the Algerian regime and radical Islam, has spoken publicly for the first time since his release from prison after a year behind bars. Sansal was arrested in November 2024 upon returning to Algeria from France and sentenced to five years for allegedly harming state security. He attributes his imprisonment primarily to his outspoken support for Israel and his criticism of the Algerian government, including his stance on Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara.

Following intense diplomatic pressure from France and Germany, the Algerian president granted Sansal a pardon, allowing him to receive medical treatment in Germany before returning to France. Sansal described the harsh prison conditions and the lasting physical and psychological toll of his incarceration. He also revealed that his persecution was part of a long-standing pattern of censorship, job loss, and threats due to his views. He recalled visiting Israel in 2012 and expecting arrest upon his return to Algeria, which did not occur under then-president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who feared international backlash.

Sansal criticized the current Algerian president, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, for ruling through fear and overseeing mass arrests. He condemned the October 7 Hamas terror attack as one of history's greatest atrocities and called for accountability not only for Hamas but also Hezbollah, Iran, and states supporting them, including Algeria. Despite his ordeal, Sansal expressed solidarity with the Israeli people and encouraged them to remain courageous. He hopes to return to Algeria for a fair retrial under international supervision or otherwise pursue legal action against Tebboune internationally. Sansal also revealed plans to visit Israel, saying he is exploring this with Israeli friends and would do so gladly.