United Nations Security Council approved a resolution on Friday supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, deeming it the most feasible solution for the long-standing dispute. The move, backed by the United States, sparked strong objections from Algeria.
Western Sahara, a vast region rich in minerals, was formerly a Spanish colony. Morocco currently controls most of the area, but the pro-independence Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, has claimed sovereignty over it for decades.
Previously, the Security Council urged Morocco, the Polisario Front, Algeria, and Mauritania to resume negotiations toward a comprehensive agreement. However, driven by the Trump administration’s initiative, the council shifted to endorse Morocco’s 2007 plan for Western Sahara’s autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.
The resolution passed with 11 votes in favor, none opposed, and three abstentions, with Algeria choosing not to participate. It stated that autonomy under Moroccan rule could be the basis for future talks to resolve the five-decade conflict.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI welcomed the vote, calling it a historic step opening a victorious chapter in affirming Morocco’s claim over the Sahara. The Trump administration recognized Morocco’s claim in 2020, coinciding with Morocco-Israel normalization, fulfilling key diplomatic goals for both nations.
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