Morocco’s western Sahara strategy: a pivotal moment for us backing

In recent weeks, specifically since late July, the United States has intensified its economic and diplomatic overtures towards Morocco. This marks a continuation of a strategic alignment that saw Washington endorse Morocco’s autonomy proposal for the Western Sahara in 2020. That crucial endorsement was part of a broader agreement, facilitating Morocco’s normalization of relations with Israel. Now, the geopolitical landscape suggests a further deepening of this partnership, with Washington appearing poised to back Moroccan claims over the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.

This potential shift places considerable pressure on Spain, particularly following the recent influx of tens of thousands of individuals, including both Moroccan citizens and sub-Saharan migrants, into Ceuta’s territory. Riccardo Fabiani, who serves as the North Africa Director at the International Crisis Group, offers invaluable insights into the evolving geopolitical context and the expanding influence of the United States across the region.