Algeria has decided to suspend its consular relations with three French provinces: Nice, Montpellier, and Marseille, in response to the deportation of illegal Algerian migrants from France.

The decision includes freezing consular visits for Algerian prisoners in these areas, meaning no consular permits will be issued until further notice.

This escalation comes amid unprecedented tensions between the two countries since last summer over migration issues and France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara.