City, Country — In a groundbreaking move, the United States has facilitated direct talks between long-standing rivals Morocco and Algeria to address the decades-old territorial dispute over Western Sahara. These discussions, which also involved Mauritania and the Polisario Front, represent an attempt by the Trump administration to reignite negotiations that have been at a standstill for many years.
The talks, held in Madrid in February 2026, are seen as a significant development in the ongoing conflict.
Western Sahara, a strategically important region, has been claimed by Morocco, while Algeria supports the independence movement led by the Polisario Front.
The region has been the subject of a long and violent conflict, with periods of armed conflict and the collapse of a ceasefire in 2020 contributing to regional tensions.
According to local reports, the United States has been working to broker a resolution to the conflict, which dates back to the 1970s when Spain, which had administered the region, began to withdraw.
Both Morocco and Mauritania claimed parts of Western Sahara, leading to conflict, with the Polisario Front fighting for the independence of Western Sahara. These talks mark the first time that Morocco and Algeria have engaged in direct negotiations since 2019.
The inclusion of Mauritania and the Polisario Front adds to the complexity of the discussions, as each party has its own interests and positions regarding the future of the region.
While specific details of the positions taken by the parties involved were not immediately available, the mere fact that these negotiations have taken place is a significant development.
The government stated in a communiqué that the discussions were a crucial step forward in resolving the conflict. Regional officials confirmed that the talks were convened to explore all possible solutions to the dispute, including those supported by the United Nations.
The discussions were guided by elements of a recent United Nations Security Council resolution, indicating a focus on international law and the principles of self — determination.
As the situation unfolds, For now, the international community awaits further developments and additional statements from the parties involved. Further details are expected as the situation continues to develop.
Source: cedirates.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
