City, Country — February 10, 2026 The United States has brokered a rare and unprecedented direct dialogue between Morocco and Algeria over the long-standing territorial dispute involving Western Sahara.
The talks, which took place in Madrid, are seen as a significant step in the Trump administration’s efforts to resolve one of Africa’s most enduring conflicts.
According to regional officials, the discussions included representatives from Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front, which represents the indigenous Sahrawi people in the dispute.
The conflict over Western Sahara dates back to the 1970s when Morocco annexed the former Spanish colony.
The Polisario Front has been fighting for independence, with Algeria historically supporting the movement.
The talks, which are described as ‘rare,’are part of a broader effort to resolve the conflict that has seen periods of armed conflict, including the collapse of a ceasefire in 2020.
The discussions were guided by elements of a recent United Nations Security Council resolution. Official statements indicate that the United States is seeking to revive efforts to resolve the long-standing dispute. Western Sahara, a strategically significant territory, is claimed by Morocco, while Algeria supports the region’s independence movement.
The involvement of Mauritania and the Polisario Front in the talks underscores the complexity of the issue and the diverse interests at play.
The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the region and the international community’s approach to territorial disputes. Regional officials confirmed that further details of the talks and their outcomes are not yet available.
However, the fact that the United States has taken such a proactive role in facilitating these discussions suggests a renewed commitment to finding a resolution to the conflict.
The situation remains developing, and further details are expected as the talks continue.
The international community will be closely watching to see if this initiative marks a significant breakthrough in the decades — old conflict.
Source: U. S. Brings bitter rivals Morocco and Algeria to the table over Western Sahara talks — africa.
Businessinsider.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
