Washington: US President Donald Trump on Saturday reaffirmed Washington's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, emphasizing that any alternative path to resolving the dispute is unacceptable. In a message to Morocco's King Mohammed VI, Trump stated, "The United States has been clear: we recognize Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, and we support Morocco's serious, credible, and realistic autonomy proposal as the only basis for a just and lasting solution."

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump further stressed that any other approach would only prolong the status quo, which he deemed unacceptable. He emphasized the urgent need for a resolution, asserting that it would not only bring peace to the region but also foster prosperity and greater integration across Africa. Trump declared that the dispute must end now and assured continued US efforts to drive progress toward that goal.

The relations between the United States and Morocco entered a new phase in December 2020 when Trump issued a proclamation recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. This recognition followed Morocco's decision to normalize relations with Israel.

The ongoing dispute over Western Sahara remains a significant issue in North African diplomacy. Morocco has proposed granting broad autonomy to the territory while maintaining its sovereignty. In contrast, the Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, continues to push for a referendum on self-determination.

The roots of the Western Sahara conflict trace back to 1975 when Spain ended its colonial rule over the territory. This led to an armed conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which lasted until a ceasefire was brokered in 1991.