French Judge Interrogates Algerian Opponent Hicham Abboud in Assassination Attempt Case

A French investigating judge specializing in terrorism cases heard from Algerian opposition figure Hicham Abboud in Paris on Friday. The hearing was part of an investigation into an assassination attempt targeting Abboud in February 2025 in northern France. Abboud, a former Algerian intelligence officer and journalist, has lived in France since the 1990s. He briefly returned to Algeria in 2011 but went back to France due to fears of prosecution.

Abboud attributed the assassination attempt to Algerian authorities. When asked by a France Press correspondent after the hearing, he stated that if anyone could suggest an alternative hypothesis, they should come forward and convince him. Abboud emphasized that his only enemy is the Algerian regime and its affiliates. The accused individuals in the case admitted to not knowing Abboud and being unaware of their motives.

Three young men face charges of attempted murder as part of an organized gang linked to a terrorist project. A fourth person is accused of complicity in attempted murder and participation in a criminal terrorist gang. According to a judicial source, investigators discovered a "hit contract" on Abboud while investigating a museum robbery near Lyon in November 2024.

Through analysis of encrypted messages on the Signal application, investigators identified a group of suspects, including the person supposed to carry out the shooting for 10,000 euros. Relations between Algeria and France involve sensitive issues, such as the case of French sports journalist Christophe Glize, imprisoned in Algeria since June 2025 for "glorifying terrorism."

Another sensitive case is that of opponent Amir Boukhors, known as "Amir DZ," who was kidnapped in the Paris region on April 29, 2024, and released on May 1. Like Abboud, Boukhors faces an arrest warrant from March 2022, accused by Algeria of belonging to a terrorist group. These cases highlight the complex and tense relationship between the two nations.

The investigation into the assassination attempt targeting Abboud is ongoing. The case has garnered significant attention due to its potential connections to terrorism and the strained relations between Algeria and France. Abboud's case is one of several involving Algerian opposition figures and journalists who have faced threats or prosecution.

The hearing of Hicham Abboud marks a significant development in the investigation into the assassination attempt. As the case progresses, it may reveal further details about the motives behind the attempt and potential connections to broader terrorist networks. The outcome of the investigation and subsequent trial will be closely watched by both Algerian and French authorities.

Key points

• French judge interrogates Algerian opposition figure Hicham Abboud over 2025 assassination attempt
• Investigation reveals hit contract on Abboud linked to terrorist project
• Case highlights sensitive relations between Algeria and France