The United States’ renewed backing of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara is more than just a political statement, it’s a strategic shift that could change the direction of this long-standing regional conflict, says a report by the Policy Center for the New South.
On April 8, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Washington sees Morocco’s autonomy plan as the only realistic solution to the Sahara issue.
The move, according to the report, shows how strong and stable the Morocco–U.S. partnership has become, especially in today’s shifting global landscape.
The study points out that this support could help push international efforts toward a practical political solution rather than holding out for a referendum.
It also signals growing international support for Morocco, especially after France also backed the autonomy plan in 2024.
Together, these stances have placed more pressure on Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front. The study notes that Algeria now finds itself increasingly isolated on this issue.
Beyond diplomacy, the U.S. stance helps reinforce peace and security in Morocco’s southern provinces.
The U.S. stance also sends a strong message to separatist groups and strengthens Moroccan-American cooperation in tackling cross-border threats and extremist groups, especially after rising tensions in 2020 when Moroccan forces reopened the Guerguerat border crossing.
Since 2021, the United Nations Security Council has gradually moved away from language that mentions a referendum, instead focusing on realistic political solutions.
The study suggests that under continued U.S. pressure, Morocco’s autonomy proposal might become the main framework for future talks.
The report also highlights Morocco’s efforts to turn the Sahara into a driver of development rather than a conflict zone. Major projects like the Dakhla port are part of a broader Atlantic initiative to connect Africa with Europe and the Americas.
The study says that U.S. support boosts Morocco’s role as a key regional player and reduces the influence of separatist movements that haven’t adapted to today’s geopolitical changes.
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