UN Security Council Resolution 2797: A Turning Point for Western Sahara

On October 31, 2025, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2797, endorsing Morocco's autonomy proposal for Western Sahara as the most feasible solution to the long-standing conflict. This resolution, which received support from 11 out of 15 Council members, calls for serious negotiations based on Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan, while extending the mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission (MINURSO) for another year. The resolution marks a significant shift in the international approach to the Western Sahara issue, which has persisted since Spain's withdrawal in 1975.

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The resolution is seen as a diplomatic victory for Morocco, reinforcing its claims over Western Sahara and consolidating its territorial sovereignty. King Mohammed VI emphasized the importance of this moment, stating, “We are starting a new chapter in the process of consolidating the Moroccanness of the Sahara.” The resolution opens avenues for economic cooperation between Morocco and Algeria, potentially revitalizing the Arab Maghreb Union and enhancing regional stability. Algeria, which abstained from the vote, faces a pivotal opportunity to reshape its regional policies and engage in dialogue with Morocco.

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The Sahrawi Movement for Peace (MSP) welcomed the resolution, viewing it as a strategic reformulation that prioritizes the autonomy proposal. The MSP advocates for a participatory negotiation process that includes diverse Sahrawi voices, urging the UN to facilitate a genuine dialogue that transcends the Polisario Front's influence. The MSP's stance reflects a desire for a pragmatic approach to resolving the conflict, emphasizing the need for cooperation and development.

Sahrawi Peace Movement pushes for peaceful solution after UN resolution on Western SaharaSouth Africa Expresses Disappointment Over UN Renewal of Western Sahara Mission Mandate, Urges Inclusive DialogueUN Security Council Endorses Morocco’s Western Sahara PlanSahara – UN : Algeria hails having «thwarted» Morocco’s plans at the Security CouncilRussia reveals: without changes, it would have vetoed the UN resolution on Western SaharaThe Arab WeeklyYnetNews

Despite the resolution's endorsement, the Polisario Front rejected it, asserting that it legitimizes Moroccan occupation and undermines the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination. The Polisario's UN representative reaffirmed their commitment to independence, stating, “The Sahrawi people’s unwavering commitment to their non-negotiable right to self-determination remains.” Algeria's Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf criticized the resolution for failing to recognize the Polisario's proposals and emphasized that the autonomy plan should not be the sole framework for negotiations.

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The resolution has sparked mixed reactions among international actors. While the U.S. and several European nations praised it for promoting a realistic solution, Russia and Algeria expressed concerns about its bias. Russia's ambassador criticized the resolution for being unbalanced and warned that it could reignite conflict. South Africa also voiced disappointment, advocating for a more inclusive dialogue that respects the Sahrawi people's rights.

Russia reveals: without changes, it would have vetoed the UN resolution on Western Sahara

The adoption of Resolution 2797 sets the stage for renewed diplomatic efforts in the region. The UN Secretary-General is tasked with reviewing MINURSO's mandate and the negotiation outcomes within six months. As Morocco and Algeria navigate this new landscape, the potential for cooperation and stability in the Maghreb region hinges on their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and address the aspirations of the Sahrawi people.

South Africa Expresses Disappointment Over UN Renewal of Western Sahara Mission Mandate, Urges Inclusive Dialogue

• “The Polisario Front reaffirms the Sahrawi people’s unwavering commitment to their non-negotiable right to self-determination and independence, and to defend their rights and sovereignty by all legitimate means.” — Sidi Mohamed Omar, Polisario Front Representative

YnetNews

• “He added that «the Moroccan autonomy plan is no longer considered the exclusive framework for resolving the conflict».” — Ahmed Attaf, Algerian Foreign Minister

Sahara – UN : Algeria hails having «thwarted» Morocco’s plans at the Security Council

• “We believe regional peace is possible this year,” — Mike Waltz, U.S. Ambassador to the UN

UN Security Council Endorses Morocco’s Western Sahara Plan

This resolution represents a critical juncture in the Western Sahara conflict, with the potential to reshape regional dynamics and foster a path toward lasting peace.

Sahrawi Peace Movement pushes for peaceful solution after UN resolution on Western Sahara