Shifting Dynamics in the Western Sahara Conflict: The Impact of UN Resolution 2797

On October 31, 2025, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2797, marking a significant shift in the long-standing conflict over Western Sahara. The resolution endorses Morocco's autonomy proposal as the "most feasible" solution, framing it as the basis for future negotiations involving Morocco, Algeria, the Polisario Front, and Mauritania. Staffan de Mistura, the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for the Sahara, emphasized that this resolution represents a renewed international commitment to resolving the conflict, which has persisted for over 50 years.

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In the wake of Resolution 2797, the Polisario Front publicly rejected the resolution, labeling it a "dangerous and unprecedented deviation." However, internal discussions revealed a more complex narrative. Said Zarwal, a Polisario member in Sweden, indicated that there were varying opinions on how to respond to potential negotiations, particularly if an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump were extended. While some members advocated for participation to avoid American sanctions, others pushed for a complete rejection of the Moroccan autonomy plan. This internal discord highlights the challenges the Polisario faces in maintaining a unified stance amid external pressures.

Sahara: Unveiling the Polisario's double talk after the UN resolution

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) noted that the adoption of Resolution 2797 represents a diplomatic victory for Morocco, which has long sought to assert its sovereignty over the Sahara. The resolution received broad support, with 11 votes in favor and three abstentions, and it explicitly calls for all parties to engage in negotiations without preconditions. Morocco's King Mohammed VI hailed the resolution as a historic moment, asserting that it allows the country to focus on development and regional cooperation.

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Despite the resolution's support for Morocco, the Polisario Front and its backer, Algeria, continue to oppose the autonomy plan. Critics argue that the resolution undermines the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination. The Polisario has also been accused of exaggerating military actions to maintain relevance in a conflict that the UN now classifies as "low-intensity." Furthermore, the U.S. Congress is considering a bill that could designate the Polisario as a foreign terrorist organization, which would further isolate the group diplomatically.

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Staffan de Mistura stated, "The real work starts now," emphasizing the need for constructive engagement from all parties involved. He reiterated that the UN's role is evolving from merely facilitating dialogue to structuring a negotiation process around Morocco's autonomy plan. King Mohammed VI declared that Morocco would soon submit an updated version of its autonomy proposal to the UN, reinforcing its commitment to a negotiated solution.

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The UN's endorsement of Morocco's autonomy plan sets the stage for renewed negotiations. De Mistura plans to call on all parties to submit proposals based on the Moroccan plan, aiming to create a broad agenda for future discussions. The upcoming months will be crucial as the involved parties navigate the complexities of the resolution and its implications for the region.

Autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, basis for Sahara talks- UN Envoy says – The North Africa Post

In conclusion, the adoption of Resolution 2797 has reshaped the landscape of the Western Sahara conflict, presenting both opportunities and challenges for all parties involved. The path forward will require careful negotiation and a willingness to engage in dialogue to achieve a lasting resolution.

Autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, basis for Sahara talks- UN Envoy says – The North Africa Post