Algiers, Algeria — A recent statement by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ignited a debate regarding Algeria’s stance on the Western Sahara issue.
In a televised interview, Tebboune mentioned UN Security Council Resolution 2797, indicating that the resolution is progressing “without a problem between them and us. “.
The Western Sahara conflict, which dates back to the 1970s, has long been a point of contention between Morocco and Algeria. Morocco claims sovereignty over the region, while the Polisario Front, a Sahrawi national liberation movement, seeks independence. Algeria has historically supported the Polisario Front, but Tebboune’s remarks suggest a potential shift in policy.
Resolution 2797, adopted on October 31, 2022, calls for a realistic and lasting political solution to the Western Sahara dispute. It reinforces the Moroccan autonomy initiative, which offers self-governance for the region under Moroccan sovereignty.
The resolution also identifies Algeria as a key party in the conflict and urges it to participate in negotiations. Morocco has gained significant diplomatic support for its autonomy plan in recent years.
A growing number of countries, including the UK and the UN Security Council, have backed Morocco’s proposal.
Meanwhile, several nations have withdrawn or frozen their recognition of the self — proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, weakening the Polisario’s diplomatic standing. Tebboune’s cautious and limited reference to the UN process suggests that any potential adjustment remains gradual and sensitive. This comes as the UN process has moved away from the idea of a referendum on independence, focusing instead on a negotiated political solution.
The potential shift in Algeria’s stance is being closely watched by both regional and international actors. While Tebboune’s statement is a step forward, it remains to be seen whether this evolving diplomatic context will translate into changes on the ground, including a reassessment of conditions in the Tindouf camps where the Polisario leadership is based.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: moroccoworldnews
Source: Sara Zouiten
