Trump Promises Morocco to Classify the Polisario as a Terrorist Organization
In a move that reflects the depth of relations between Donald Trump’s administration and Morocco—strengthened by a strategic alliance involving Israel and the United Arab Emirates—well-informed sources told El Independiente that the former U.S. president has promised the Kingdom of Morocco to designate the Polisario Front as a terrorist organization.
This promise follows a recent meeting in Washington between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his American counterpart, Marco Rubio. During the meeting, Washington reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan as the only viable solution to the Western Sahara conflict. A statement from the U.S. declared that it “will work to advance this path.”
Political Pressure on the Polisario
According to political analyst Michael Walsh, Morocco sees the Trump administration as a historic opportunity to consolidate its sovereignty over the Sahara and marginalize its opponents—chief among them the Polisario Front—by pushing for its designation as a foreign terrorist organization. Walsh notes that the Moroccan lobby in Washington is already in motion, using media campaigns and unproven insinuations, such as those published by The Washington Post alleging ties between the Polisario and Iran.
Polisario’s Response and Mutual Accusations
The Polisario Front has denied these accusations, calling them repeated Moroccan attempts to damage its reputation—attempts that have failed. The movement emphasizes its status as a recognized liberation movement, a member of the African Union, and maintains official representations in several countries. It also affirms its adherence to international humanitarian law and its cooperation with the Red Cross.
Algeria’s Stance and the Complexity of the File
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune stated that his country refrains from supplying the Polisario with advanced weaponry, while reaffirming Algeria’s support for the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination. He also stressed that the Saharan issue represents a “red line” for Algeria.
Balanced U.S. Maneuvers
While the Biden administration has not reversed U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, it merely describes the Moroccan autonomy plan as a “possible solution.” In contrast, Republicans—led by Trump—are now seeking to solidify that recognition through concrete measures, including the opening of a U.S. consulate in Laâyoune, a politically significant gesture.
Toward a Final Resolution?
Walsh believes that the Trump administration aims to leave a lasting diplomatic mark by resolving the Western Sahara conflict—just as it has with other crises such as those in Palestine or Yemen. With the 50th anniversary of the conflict approaching, Moroccan diplomacy is intensifying its efforts to reach a swift resolution, while Washington counts on Republican support in Congress to ensure the implementation of its promises.
However, several obstacles remain, including a lack of consensus within NATO on a clear North Africa strategy, and concerns over potential economic repercussions that could impact Republican prospects in the upcoming elections.
