In a move that garnered significant attention, the official Spanish channel “RTVE” presented, in its latest weekly bulletin, the complete map of Morocco, including the Sahara region, despite protests from the Polisario Front. This direct challenge to the separatist movement’s demands raises questions about Spain’s recent stance on the Sahara conflict.
Is Spain sticking to its current position?
Abdallah Arabi, regarded as the Polisario’s spokesperson in Spain, confirmed that this is not the first time the Spanish channel has shown the full map of Morocco. Arabi claims that this move contradicts “international law” and UN resolutions. But the question remains: why is the channel ignoring the Polisario’s demands, which advocate for an anti-Moroccan sovereignty stance on the Sahara?
Spain Supports the Moroccan Solution: Why this Change?
Spain now officially supports the autonomy proposal put forward by Morocco to resolve the Sahara conflict under Moroccan sovereignty. In an official letter addressed to King Mohammed VI in March 2022, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed Spain’s support for this proposal as a “realistic and credible” solution. Does this shift mark a decisive turning point in favor of Morocco on this often delicate issue?
Spain’s Support for Morocco’s Sovereignty: A Major Blow to Polisario
The current Spanish position is a major political blow to the Polisario, considering Spain’s significance in the Sahara issue. As the former colonial power in the region, Spain had long been a key supporter of the Polisario. How will this change affect the balance of power in the Sahara?
Algeria’s Role and the Impact of Spain’s Position on Regional Politics
Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front, was not pleased with Spain’s shift. In 2022, Algeria decided to sever diplomatic and economic relations with Madrid to protest its support for the autonomy proposal. Despite its efforts to pressure Spain, Algeria failed to get Madrid to change its stance. Will Algeria be forced to rethink its strategy in light of Spain’s firm position?
Is the Scenario Repeating with France?
This shift coincides with France’s position, which announced its support for the autonomy proposal in July 2024, leading to diplomatic tensions between Algeria and France, with a reduction in economic and diplomatic cooperation. Will Algeria respond similarly to France in the coming months? Will Algeria continue to oppose Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara despite this growing international support?
Ultimately, the key question remains: Will the Polisario be able to change international positions in favor of Morocco? Or will this issue be closed in favor of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara?
