Western Sahara: Polisario threatens to quit peace process
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Yabiladi
The Polisario Front warns it could withdraw from the Western Sahara peace process if the Security Council adopts the US draft resolution without substantial changes. The text would make autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty the basis for negotiations, according to the movement’s letter to the Security Council president, reported by Yabiladi.
The Polisario Front is threatening to withdraw entirely from the United Nations peace process on Western Sahara if the US draft resolution is adopted without substantial changes, according to Yabiladi. In a letter to the president of the Security Council, the movement says the text reflects Washington’s position, including its recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the territory, and risks undermining the political process.
The US draft would make Morocco’s proposed autonomy the sole basis for negotiations and present it as the only possible solution. The Polisario rejects this framework, which it considers contrary to the Sahrawis’ right to self-determination and liable to predetermine the outcome of discussions. It also disputes the use of Resolution 2797 of 2025 as the main reference, saying the issue should be considered in light of all relevant UN resolutions.
The text provides for ending the peacekeeping mandate of MINURSO, the UN mission in Western Sahara, on 30 April 2027, and turning it into a special political mission on 1 May. It also provides for a reduction of at least 50% in authorised military personnel by 31 January 2027.
The Polisario’s threat follows its objections to UN envoy Staffan de Mistura’s approach on 16 October and the adoption, on 15 October, of a UN resolution on Western Sahara by 152 votes. The renewal of MINURSO’s mandate is also under consideration at the United Nations.
