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UN's top security body has adopted a US-backed measure that favors Moroccan position regarding the disputed Western Sahara, despite strong resistance from Algeria.

Divided Vote Strengthens Morocco's Stance

Although the recent decision was divided, the measure constitutes the most significant endorsement yet for Moroccan plan to retain control over the territory, which additionally has support from the majority of EU members and a growing number of African allies.

Resolution Structure and Important Components

The document describes Moroccan plan as a foundation for talks. Similar to earlier measures, the document makes no mention of a referendum on independence that includes independence as an option, which constitutes the approach long supported by the independence-seeking Polisario Front and its allies.

Real self-rule under Morocco's authority could constitute a most feasible solution.

Background Context

The territory is a mineral-rich stretch of coastline arid land the size of a US state which was under Spain's control until 1975. It is claimed by both the Moroccan government and the Polisario Front, which operates from refugee camps in southwestern Algeria and asserts to represent the Sahrawi people native to the contested territory.

Decision Results and International Reactions

The United States, which sponsored the resolution, led eleven nations in deciding in support, while three nations – multiple nations – abstained. Algeria, the movement's primary benefactor, did not vote.

Mike Waltz, the US representative to the UN, stated the decision had been "historic" and would "build on the progress for a much-delayed resolution in Western Sahara".

Amar Bendjama, the Algeria's representative to the UN, commented that while the resolution was an advancement on earlier iterations, it "still has a series of deficiencies".

Peacekeeping Operation and Future Review

The resolution also renews the UN peacekeeping operation in Western Sahara for another year, as has been done for over three decades. Previous extensions, however, have not contained a reference to Moroccan and its supporters' favored resolution.

The measure calls on all sides participating to "seize this unique chance for a enduring resolution." Based on progress, it requests the secretary general to assess the peacekeeping mission's mandate within half a year.

Regional Impact and Current Conditions

The shift could unsettle a protracted process that for decades has eluded settlement, desdespite a United Nations security mission that was designed to be temporary. Protests have followed in indigenous refugee camps in the neighboring country this recent period, where residents have pledged not to abandon their fight for independence.

The Moroccan government administers nearly all of Western Sahara, excluding a thin strip known as the "free zone" that lies to the east of a constructed by Morocco barrier.

Past Background and Recent Developments

A 1991 ceasefire was meant to pave the way for a vote on self-determination, but disagreements over participation criteria blocked it from occurring.

Through time, Morocco has developed the contested territory, constructing a deepwater port and a long highway. Government subsidies keep food and energy prices low, and the resident count has ballooned as Moroccans settle in urban areas such as Dakhla and Laayoune.

Polisario ended the ceasefire in 2020 after confrontations near a road the government was constructing to Mauritania.

The group has since frequently documented military activity, while the government has mostly denied open conflict. The United Nations calls it "low-level tensions".

Global Relations and Future Possibilities

Reacting to the draft resolution, the movement stated that it would not join any process intending "to 'legitimise' Moroccan unauthorized presence," adding peace "can never be achieved by supporting territorial claims".

The conflict constitutes the central issue in north African diplomacy. The Moroccan government views endorsement of its autonomy plan as a standard for how it assesses its international partners.

Last October, the UN representative proposed dividing the territory, a proposal no party agreed to. He urged the government to specify what self-rule would involve and cautioned that a absence of progress might raise questions about the United Nations' role and "whether there is space and willingness for us to remain useful."

The initiative to review the UN operation comes as the United States slashes financial support for UN programmes and agencies, covering security operations.