Tensions in the Moroccan Sahara have taken a new turn following a missile attack by the Polisario on the town of Mahbes, reigniting the debate over the group’s tactics and the growing calls for its classification as a terrorist organization.
Political analyst Driss El Guenbouri told Hespress EN that designating the Polisario as a terrorist organization could fundamentally shift the geopolitical landscape of the dispute.
Rather than negotiating with a separatist movement, Morocco would be portrayed as defending its sovereignty against a terrorist threat.
Guenbouri said that there is a double standard in international counter-terrorism efforts. “Separatist groups in Mali have been labeled as terrorists by the UN, the US, and France. Why not the Polisario, given its recent violent actions, including the attack on Mahbes?” El Guenbouri said.
The political analyst said that countries, particularly France, a key ally of Morocco, need to clarify their stance on the Polisario.
El Houcine Guennoun, a political analyst, said that classifying the Polisario as a terrorist organization won’t be easy, especially after the United Nations Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2756.
“Resolution 2756 acknowledges the Polisario as a recognized party in the conflict,” said Guennoun. “This recognition complicates efforts to label the group as a terrorist organization because it places them within the framework of ongoing negotiations under the UN’s mediation.”
The Polisario’s attack on Mahbes occurred during a ceremony commemorating the 49th anniversary of the Green March, a historic event that solidified Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara.
Four missiles, launched from off-road vehicles operated by Polisario fighters, landed near a large civilian gathering, though fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The Royal Armed Forces responded swiftly with a drone strike, neutralizing several attackers, including a high-ranking Polisario leader.
While the Polisario claimed responsibility, denying targeting civilians, images from the scene contradicted their assertion. Civilians were seen recovering from the panic and chanting patriotic slogans.
El Guenbouri said that the Polisario’s escalating tactics, likely backed by Algeria, aim to create a new reality on the ground. This escalation, he believes, is a response to growing international support for Morocco, particularly following recent political developments in the United States.
The Mahbes attack is not an isolated incident. In late October, the Polisario launched another attack on Es-Semara, resulting in civilian casualties.
In response to the escalating violence, Morocco has intensified its military operations against the Polisario. A drone strike on November 5 targeted Polisario vehicles, resulting in casualties.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.