An Algerian court sentenced 80-year-old writer Boualem Sansal to five years in prison for undermining the country's territorial integrity. His comments about France's colonial land distribution and Western Sahara's historical ties to Morocco led to his arrest. The case has garnered support from figures like Wole Soyinka and Emmanuel Macron, highlighting strained Franco-Algerian relations. Sansal, known for his anti-Islamist stance, faces health issues during detention. His lawyer has appealed to President Tebboune for leniency.