The Moroccan Parliament has announced a joint session to discuss the latest developments on the Sahara issue, a matter considered a top priority for the Moroccan people. The session, scheduled for November 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM, will bring together members of both chambers to address the recent developments. This move comes after the UN Security Council failed to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) on October 30, 2026.
The failure to renew the MINURSO mandate was due to a double veto by the United States and Russia, two permanent members of the UN Security Council. In response, the Royal Cabinet issued a statement, calling for the immediate withdrawal of MINURSO personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols from the southern provinces of Morocco. The Cabinet described the non-renewal of the mandate as a significant step towards the definitive closure of the Sahara issue at the UN.
According to the Royal Cabinet, the non-renewal of the MINURSO mandate marks a major turning point in the history of the Sahara issue. The Cabinet stated that the 35-year-old mission had become an instrument for internationalizing the regional dispute over Morocco's sovereignty in the Sahara. The statement emphasized that the mission's presence was no longer justified, given the changed circumstances.
The Moroccan government has long considered the Sahara issue a national priority. The joint session of parliament will provide an opportunity for lawmakers to discuss the implications of the MINURSO mandate's non-renewal and the potential next steps. The session is expected to shed light on the government's strategy for addressing the Sahara issue in the future.
The UN Security Council's decision has been welcomed by Morocco as a significant step towards resolving the Sahara issue. The government has expressed its hope that this development will pave the way for a more definitive resolution to the conflict. Morocco has consistently maintained that the Sahara region is an integral part of its territory.
The joint session of parliament will take place against the backdrop of increased diplomatic efforts by Morocco to strengthen its international partnerships. Recently, Moroccan officials have engaged in talks with Russian and other international partners to promote cooperation and address regional issues. The session is expected to highlight Morocco's commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the Sahara issue.
The outcome of the joint session of parliament and the government's subsequent actions will be closely watched by international observers and regional stakeholders. The Moroccan people's expectations for a resolution to the Sahara issue remain high, and the government faces pressure to deliver a positive outcome. The government has reiterated its commitment to finding a solution that ensures Morocco's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Key points
- Moroccan Parliament to hold joint session on Sahara issue following non-renewal of MINURSO mandate
- Government describes non-renewal of MINURSO mandate as significant step towards resolving Sahara issue
- Session to discuss implications of MINURSO's withdrawal and potential next steps for Morocco
