The UN Security Council voted on Friday to support Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, calling it the “most feasible” solution for the disputed territory, sparking celebrations in Rabat but angered Algeria.
Western Sahara, a mineral-rich former Spanish colony, remains largely controlled by Morocco. However, the pro-independence Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, has claimed the territory for decades. The Security Council previously urged Morocco, the Polisario Front, Algeria, and Mauritania to resume negotiations for a broad agreement.
Shift in Support for Morocco’s Plan
Under the initiative of US President Donald Trump’s administration, the council shifted its stance to endorse Morocco’s 2007 proposal, granting Western Sahara autonomy while maintaining Moroccan sovereignty. The resolution passed with an 11-0 vote, three abstentions, and Algeria’s refusal to participate, stating that autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could serve as a basis for future negotiations to resolve the 50-year-old conflict.
“Genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could constitute a most feasible solution,” the UNSC resolution stated.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI hailed the vote as “historic,” declaring, “We are opening a new and victorious chapter in the process of enshrining the Moroccan character of the Sahara.” In Rabat, thousands celebrated, chanting, “The Sahara is Moroccan and always has been!” They sang the national anthem and other patriotic songs.
In Smara, a city within the disputed territory, residents set off fireworks as soon as the vote was announced.
International Reactions and Concerns
During his presidency, Trump recognized Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara after the country normalized relations with Israel. This move achieved significant diplomatic goals for both Rabat and Washington. Spain, France, Britain, and Germany have since expressed support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory.
The UN envoy on Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, welcomed US efforts to address the issue but raised concerns about the lack of detail in Morocco’s plan.
Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama criticized the resolution, stating it “does not faithfully or sufficiently reflect the UN doctrine on decolonization.” He added that it “fell short of the expectations and legitimate aspirations of the people of Western Sahara, represented by the Polisario Front, who have been resisting for over 50 years to have a say in their own destiny.”
The resolution calls on UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and de Mistura to conduct negotiations based on Morocco’s plan to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Additionally, it extends the UN peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara for another year.
