US Reaffirms Unwavering Stance on Sahara Amid UN Envoy's Partition Proposal
In a significant diplomatic development, the United States has maintained its established position on the Sahara dispute, with State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterating American support for Morocco's territorial claims during a recent press briefing.
The announcement comes amid controversy surrounding a new proposal by UN Envoy Staffan de Mistura, which suggests partitioning Sahara between Morocco and the Polisario Front. Miller acknowledged unfamiliarity with the specifics of de Mistura's proposal, which was reportedly presented during a closed-door Security Council briefing on October 17.
According to Reuters, de Mistura's plan envisions dividing the territory to enable the establishment of an independent state while integrating the remaining area into Morocco. This proposal stands in direct opposition to Morocco's longstanding position, which centers on a 2007 autonomy initiative that has garnered substantial international support.
In what appears to be a acknowledgment of diplomatic gridlock, de Mistura has indicated his intention to step down from his role in six months. "If by April 2025 I have not reported significant progress and provided clarifications, I fear questions should be asked about the future modalities of UN facilitation of the political process in Sahara," de Mistura stated, as reported by El Confidencial.
The US position faces ongoing pressure from various stakeholders, including Algeria and the Polisario Front, who continue lobbying efforts aimed at reversing American support for Morocco's autonomy plan. These efforts specifically target the US's historic recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the southern provinces in Sahara.
Despite these pressures, US officials have consistently maintained their position since 2020, demonstrating unwavering support for Morocco's stance on the territorial dispute. This steadfast approach underscores the complex diplomatic dynamics at play in the region, as international stakeholders navigate competing claims and proposed solutions to the decades-long conflict.
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