The Moroccan Sahara remains one of the most contentious issues on the global stage, a complex conflict shaped by geopolitical interests, regional dynamics, and shifting diplomatic alliances. Recently, however, this issue has seen pivotal changes that could potentially reshape the power dynamics in the region. With increasing international recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and growing pressure on the parties involved, a new phase seems to be emerging, one that could bring unexpected developments.
The U.S. Renewal: A Shift in Global Policy?
On April 5, 2025, the United States renewed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, marking a significant turning point in the long-standing dispute. This reaffirmation echoed America’s previous stance, which began with the formal recognition in December 2020. Wilson’s remarks, shared via Twitter, expressed gratitude for the continued cooperation between the two nations and their joint commitment to peace and regional stability. This renewed support from Washington solidifies the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries and serves as a powerful counter to the separatist movement in the region.
This recognition was not a one-sided move; it was also part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral ties between the U.S. and Morocco, especially in areas like security and the economy. Morocco, a key strategic partner of the U.S. in North Africa, plays a stabilizing role in a region riddled with conflicts and security threats. Washington’s stance on the Sahara issue reflects its commitment to promoting regional stability and reinforcing alliances that ensure a strong presence in the area. The gesture, echoed by the Trump administration, is a direct continuation of the 2020 recognition of Moroccan sovereignty by the United States. It reaffirms the international legitimacy of Morocco’s control over the disputed territory, even as past administrations, including President Biden’s, maintained the position without significant alterations. The support from the United States thus represents a cornerstone in Morocco’s diplomatic strategy for the region.
Opportunities and Challenges: Morocco’s Regional Struggles
While Morocco continues to strengthen its international position, the Sahara issue remains central to its foreign policy. The U.S. renewal of recognition provides Morocco with an opportunity to rally more countries to its side, giving a boost to its proposed autonomy plan as a feasible solution to the ongoing dispute. However, significant challenges remain. For every international endorsement Morocco gains, there is an opposing reaction from other parties, most notably Algeria.
Algeria, which has long supported the Polisario Front, continues to reject any solution that recognizes Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara. This hardline stance is complicated further by shifts in French policy. In October 2024, during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Morocco, relations between Algeria and France took a downturn. Algeria viewed France’s support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal as an unwelcome development that threatened its regional interests.
Macron’s Visit: Diplomatic Impact with Controversy
Macron’s visit to Morocco marked a new phase in the relations between the two countries. It wasn’t just another diplomatic exchange—it attracted global attention as France and Morocco signed economic and trade agreements, showcasing their deepening cooperation. For Morocco, the visit was a chance to strengthen its international ties, but Algeria saw it as a direct challenge to its political and security interests.
Algeria, which considers the Sahara issue highly sensitive, reacted sharply to France’s stance, even recalling its ambassador from Paris as a symbolic gesture of its discontent. This diplomatic fallout highlights the regional divide over the Sahara issue and pressures other nations to be cautious in their positions.
The Broader Implications: Shifts in Regional and Global Relations
These developments raise important questions about the future of North African relations. On one hand, Morocco is gaining increasing support from Western powers, particularly the U.S. and France, while Algeria is facing growing diplomatic isolation. This shift in the regional balance could have a profound effect on the political landscape, especially if Algeria continues to push back against positions that recognize Morocco’s sovereignty.
But the conflict is not just about Morocco and Algeria. The recent changes could also spark a broader shift in global policies surrounding the issue. Major powers might pursue new diplomatic efforts to influence the outcome of the conflict in ways that serve their own strategic interests. The Sahara issue has become a test of international diplomacy in North Africa.
Conclusion: Future Challenges at the Heart of the Sahara
What’s unfolding in the Moroccan Sahara today is more than just a regional conflict. It’s a global issue where political, economic, and security concerns are deeply intertwined. While Morocco is gaining traction on the international stage, Algeria is holding firm to its position against any solution that acknowledges Morocco’s sovereignty. As external influences continue to shape the course of events, the pressing question remains: Will this conflict remain locked in a cycle of regional politics, or will diplomatic shifts lead to a lasting resolution of this long-standing dispute?
Disclaimer. The views and opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MEPEI. Any content provided by our author is of her opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.
About the author:
Ms. Salma SMINOU is a 20-year-old student from Morocco, currently in the third year of a Bachelor's degree at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications in China. She has a strong passion for politics, diplomacy, and international relations, with a particular interest in the Middle East and North Africa region. She is currently taking an internship at MEPEI to deepen my understanding of the region’s political and economic dynamics and to contribute to research that fosters cross-cultural dialogue and global awareness. She speaks Arabic, French, English, and currently learning Chinese, which allows her to engage with diverse perspectives and sources. With her multicultural and multilingual background, she aims to bring a fresh and insightful voice to contemporary political discussions.
