Latest news with #Polisario
Morocco World
2 hours ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
EU Says It Again: Neither EU Nor Members Recognize Self-styled SADR
Marrakech – The European Union spokesperson for Foreign Affairs crushed separatist ambitions Friday, firmly declaring that 'neither the EU nor any of its Member States recognize the SADR.' This decisive statement shattered Polisario's attempts to exploit their marginal presence at the EU-AU ministerial meeting in Rome on June 27, where the fictional entity desperately sought international validation. The EU spokesperson meticulously dismantled any misconceptions by attributing the paper state's presence exclusively to African Union invitation procedures, asserting that 'invitations to African members are sent by the African Union.' He stressed that the EU's position remains unaltered despite the separatist group's attendance. 'The modalities agreed upon provide that each party is responsible for inviting its own members,' the spokesperson articulated, effectively severing any connection between EU policies and the illusory republic's participation. This latest rejection mirrors the humiliating scenario that unfolded last May during the AU-EU Ministerial Meeting in Brussels, where Polisario representatives encountered complete isolation and irrelevance despite maneuvering to attend under the African Union's umbrella. Just days before that Brussels meeting, the EU had already delivered an uncompromising repudiation of the phantom entity, with the bloc's spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy bluntly declaring that 'neither the EU nor any of its Member States recognize the SADR.' The spokesperson had emphatically hammered home that 'the position of the EU is well known' and that the illusory entity's presence 'at the EU-AU ministerial meeting has no influence whatsoever on this position,' representing a devastating diplomatic setback for the separatist agenda. Then, in Brussels, the separatist group's diplomatic insignificance crystallized when they received merely a hastily scribbled 'SADR' label on a plain sheet of paper, while legitimate African states enjoyed full protocol honors and recognition. During the meeting, the EU's High Representative deliberately vacated the room during the brief moments when a Polisario representative attempted to address the assembly, delivering an unmistakable message of rejection and further exposing the group's political invisibility. These mounting diplomatic failures for the Algerian-fabricated entity coincide with a seismic shift in international positions regarding the Western Sahara dispute. In July 2024, the African Union Executive Council demolished the separatist narrative with a resounding verdict—52 out of 54 nations voting to exclude the pseudo-state from the pan-African body's engagements with international partners. This overwhelming decision provoked Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf to erupt with claims that certain parties sought to 'institutionalize a policy of exclusion' against what he desperately characterized as 'a founding member of our organization.' Political analyst Oualid Kebir decoded this reaction as betraying a 'deep sense of pain and an explicit acknowledgment of the resounding diplomatic defeat' absorbed by Algeria, which had previously manipulated the fictional entity into positions within African institutions. The international community increasingly gravitates toward Morocco's 2007 Autonomy Plan as the definitive solution, supported by nearly two decades of UN resolutions endorsing this approach as the optimal route to a politically viable settlement. The momentum behind Morocco's territorial integrity continues to accelerate, with the United Kingdom recently joining the expanding coalition of 120 countries backing Morocco's plan—signaling the irreversible collapse of the separatist illusion. The fictitious 'SADR' entity, a destabilizing relic that only exists in Tindouf camps, remains propped up by Algeria while the actual territory thrives under Morocco's rightful and legitimate control. In another crippling blow to the Polisario's secessionist agenda, US Congressman Joe Wilson, alongside Democratic Representative Jimmy Panetta, has submitted a bipartisan bill seeking to classify the Polisario Front as a foreign terrorist organization, potentially subjecting it to stringent sanctions and complete diplomatic isolation. Just hours after this legislative push, the front delivered a confirmatory nudge to show its terror intentions by launching projectiles near the southern Moroccan city of Es-Smara, causing panic among civilians and prompting a MINURSO field investigation of what local Sahrawi NGOs condemned as a 'hostile act' violating international law. As Morocco approaches the 50th anniversary of the Green March on November 6, Morocco's Permanent Representative to the UN, Omar Hilale, has previously voiced optimism that this manufactured regional dispute approaches definitive resolution, potentially extinguishing Algeria's fabricated conflict and its invented proxy state. The latest EU pronouncement confirms the paper republic's deepening isolation, as the separatist agenda increasingly fades into irrelevance across international forums despite desperate maneuvers to sustain an illusion of legitimacy. Tags: European UnionSelf-proclaimed SADRWestern sahara
Ya Biladi
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
What a U.S. terrorist designation could mean for the Polisario Front
DR The bipartisan bill introduced by Representatives Joe Wilson (Republican) and Jimmy Panetta (Democrat) seeks to designate the Polisario Front as a « foreign terrorist organization » (FTO). However, even if the bill passes, the designation would not be automatic: under U.S. law, the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who acts on advice from the Treasury Department and the Department of Justice (8 U.S.C. § 1189). To persuade Congress—and ultimately Secretary of State Marco Rubio—Joe Wilson emphasizes the Polisario's ties to Hezbollah and Iran. He could also highlight threats of terrorist attacks against foreign interests in Western Sahara by leaders of the separatist movement. If the «Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act» succeeds and the State Department officially labels the Polisario as an FTO, here are four key consequences to expect: Implications of the FTO designation in the United States Asset freeze: The Treasury could block any funds controlled by the Polisario within U.S. jurisdiction. This freeze would be targeted; a global blockade would require an additional designation as a «Specially Designated Global Terrorist» (SDGT) by OFAC. In practice, many non-U.S. banks would likely halt processing dollar payments to avoid risks. Prosecution for «material support»: Anyone in the U.S. providing material assistance could face up to 20 years in prison (18 U.S.C. § 2339B). However, humanitarian licenses could still be granted, as has been done for groups like the Houthis, ensuring vital aid reaches civilians. Visas and border controls: Members and supporters would be legally inadmissible under INA § 212. Diplomatic exemptions might apply for UN personnel, but access to the U.S. would become the exception rather than the rule. Polisario's credibility and finances under pressure Loss of «liberation movement» aura: The FTO label would legally equate the Polisario with groups like Hezbollah or the PKK, seriously undermining its third-worldist narrative. Fundraising challenges: American payment platforms would sever ties, and European banks would adopt a strict cautionary stance. Non-dollar channels such as cryptocurrencies or Asian banks might persist unless secondary sanctions are imposed. NGOs under scrutiny: Humanitarian organizations would need OFAC licenses to operate in the Tindouf camps. Any advocacy or training involving the Polisario would become legally risky. Algeria in a delicate spot No automatic «State Sponsor of Terrorism» label: That designation requires clear, repeated support for attacks targeting U.S. interests. «Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act» law leverage: If Algeria pursues significant new Russian arms deals, CAATSA sanctions could be triggered, but this would be a highly political and conditional decision. Narrative costs: Supporting a group officially labeled as terrorist would damage Algeria's position, especially since some Sahel countries accuse it of backing terrorist groups in the region. Possible mitigation: Algeria might push for the disarmament of Polisario militias to ease international pressure. Multilateral repercussions: shifting from «decolonization» to «security» At the UN Security Council: The U.S. could push to add counter-terrorism to MINURSO's mandate during its next renewal. This would require a new resolution and must avoid a Russian or Chinese veto. Within the African Union: Some member states concerned about their image might distance themselves from the SADR, potentially leading to a formal suspension if 36 countries support amending the AU's founding charter. Bilateral relations: Hesitant countries would have a stronger rationale to openly back Morocco's autonomy plan. In short, if Washington finally brands the Polisario Front as an FTO, it would shine a spotlight on the alliances behind the Polisario—making them more visible, and more politically costly for countries like Algeria and South Africa to support.
Ya Biladi
15 hours ago
- Ya Biladi
Moroccan FAR drone neutralizes Polisario attackers after Es-Semara assault
A new chapter has emerged in the attack carried out by Polisario armed elements on Friday, June 27, targeting civilian areas in Es-Semara. The perpetrators behind the launch of five projectiles did not make it back to the Tindouf camps unscathed. «A Royal Armed Forces (FAR) drone, conducting a routine surveillance mission in the region, immediately tracked the vehicle carrying the Polisario attackers responsible for Friday's strike», a Moroccan security source told Yabiladi. «A missile fired by the unmanned aircraft completely destroyed the vehicle and its occupants. The exact toll of the airstrike, which occurred east of the Sand Wall, has yet to be confirmed». Shortly before the strike, the assailants, traveling in a vehicle, fired five rockets—believed to be of Iranian origin—on the city of Es-Semara. One projectile landed near a MINURSO barracks, but no casualties or material damage were reported.
Ya Biladi
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
What a U.S. terrorist designation could mean for the Polisario Front
The bipartisan bill introduced by Representatives Joe Wilson (Republican) and Jimmy Panetta (Democrat) seeks to designate the Polisario Front as a « foreign terrorist organization » (FTO). However, even if the bill passes, the designation would not be automatic: under U.S. law, the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who acts on advice from the Treasury Department and the Department of Justice (8 U.S.C. § 1189). To persuade Congress—and ultimately Secretary of State Marco Rubio—Joe Wilson emphasizes the Polisario's ties to Hezbollah and Iran. He could also highlight threats of terrorist attacks against foreign interests in Western Sahara by leaders of the separatist movement. If the «Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act» succeeds and the State Department officially labels the Polisario as an FTO, here are four key consequences to expect: Implications of the FTO designation in the United States Asset freeze: The Treasury could block any funds controlled by the Polisario within U.S. jurisdiction. This freeze would be targeted; a global blockade would require an additional designation as a «Specially Designated Global Terrorist» (SDGT) by OFAC. In practice, many non-U.S. banks would likely halt processing dollar payments to avoid risks. Prosecution for «material support»: Anyone in the U.S. providing material assistance could face up to 20 years in prison (18 U.S.C. § 2339B). However, humanitarian licenses could still be granted, as has been done for groups like the Houthis, ensuring vital aid reaches civilians. Visas and border controls: Members and supporters would be legally inadmissible under INA § 212. Diplomatic exemptions might apply for UN personnel, but access to the U.S. would become the exception rather than the rule. Polisario's credibility and finances under pressure Loss of «liberation movement» aura: The FTO label would legally equate the Polisario with groups like Hezbollah or the PKK, seriously undermining its third-worldist narrative. Fundraising challenges: American payment platforms would sever ties, and European banks would adopt a strict cautionary stance. Non-dollar channels such as cryptocurrencies or Asian banks might persist unless secondary sanctions are imposed. NGOs under scrutiny: Humanitarian organizations would need OFAC licenses to operate in the Tindouf camps. Any advocacy or training involving the Polisario would become legally risky. Algeria in a delicate spot No automatic «State Sponsor of Terrorism» label: That designation requires clear, repeated support for attacks targeting U.S. interests. «Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act» law leverage: If Algeria pursues significant new Russian arms deals, CAATSA sanctions could be triggered, but this would be a highly political and conditional decision. Narrative costs: Supporting a group officially labeled as terrorist would damage Algeria's position, especially since some Sahel countries accuse it of backing terrorist groups in the region. Possible mitigation: Algeria might push for the disarmament of Polisario militias to ease international pressure. Multilateral repercussions: shifting from «decolonization» to «security» At the UN Security Council: The U.S. could push to add counter-terrorism to MINURSO's mandate during its next renewal. This would require a new resolution and must avoid a Russian or Chinese veto. Within the African Union: Some member states concerned about their image might distance themselves from the SADR, potentially leading to a formal suspension if 36 countries support amending the AU's founding charter. Bilateral relations: Hesitant countries would have a stronger rationale to openly back Morocco's autonomy plan. In short, if Washington finally brands the Polisario Front as an FTO, it would shine a spotlight on the alliances behind the Polisario—making them more visible, and more politically costly for countries like Algeria and South Africa to support.
Morocco World
20 hours ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
Four Projectiles Land Near Es-Smara, No Casualties Reported
Rabat – Four projectiles reportedly landed today near the city of Es-Smara in southern Morocco. According to local media and eyewitnesses, the ordnance fell in an uninhabited area close to a military camp used by the UN MINURSO mission. No injuries or damages have been reported. The loud explosions frightened nearby residents, who rushed to the scene after hearing the blasts. Videos and photos shared on social media show what appeared to be the remains of the projectiles scattered in the area. photos shared on social media show what appeared to be the remains of the projectiles scattered in the area. The Polisario Front is believed to be behind the attack, especially with the separatist group's suspected involvement in similar incidents in the past. In 2023, four explosions killed one person and injured three others in the southern Moroccan city. The explosions occurred in two residential neighborhoods and an industrial area in the city. Soon after, Morocco launched an official investigation into the incident. The General Prosecutor at the Laayoune Court of Appeals ordered technical and ballistic analysis to determine the origin and nature of the explosive projectiles. Morocco's Permanent Representative to the UN, Omar Hilale, said that MINURSO had confirmed the explosions hit civilian neighborhoods, and that the Polisario had issued a statement indirectly taking responsibility. 'There were no military installations at any of the sites,' Hilale said in a press conference after the incident, adding that 'targeting civilians is a terrorist act under international law, and those responsible will not go unpunished.' Hilale also emphasized that those behind the attacks, as well as those who arm and support them, must be held accountable. He specifically referred to Algeria, which has hosted and financed the Polisario for decades. This new incident comes amid growing international scrutiny of the Polisario. US Republican Senator Joe Wilson and Democratic Representative Jimmy Panetta recently introduced a bipartisan bill that calls for the group to be designated as a foreign terrorist organization. The bill references the group's targeting of civilians and its return to violence following the collapse of the ceasefire in 2020. If passed, the bill could reshape how the US and other allies deal with Polisario and its supporters. Tags: Es SmaraexplosionPolisario
