The Moroccan Royal Cabinet released a statement on October 30, 2026, announcing that the United Nations Security Council had not renewed the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). This development marks a significant step towards the closure of the Sahara dossier. According to the Cabinet, the presence of MINURSO in the southern provinces of Morocco will cease in the coming days. This move is seen as a major evolution in the management of the Sahara issue.
The non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate coincides with the celebration of Morocco's Unity Day, decreed by King Mohammed VI. The day is meant to mark a break in the management of the Sahara dossier, shifting from a simple logic of management to an approach of profound transformation of parameters. The Royal Cabinet's statement emphasized that the MINURSO mission has long been an instrument of internationalization of the regional dispute over Morocco's legitimate recovery of its Saharan provinces.
The MINURSO mission was established 35 years ago, and its non-renewal marks the end of an era. The mission's presence in the southern provinces of Morocco will cease, with its personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols being withdrawn. This move is expected to mark the end of the Security Council's involvement in the Sahara issue, with periodic meetings and reports on the matter no longer necessary.
The Moroccan Royal Cabinet expressed satisfaction with the development, emphasizing that the country remains committed to the ceasefire, respecting its territorial integrity, national security, and citizens' tranquility. The Cabinet also highlighted the dynamic international momentum launched by King Mohammed VI, which has garnered significant support from over two-thirds of UN member states, including permanent Security Council members and influential powers.
The support for Morocco's autonomy under its sovereignty as the sole framework for resolving the regional dispute has been gaining traction. The Royal Cabinet's statement emphasized that the process will continue at bilateral and regional levels. Morocco's efforts to resolve the Sahara issue have been ongoing, with the country seeking to capitalize on the momentum generated by the King's initiatives.
The Unity Day celebrations, decreed by King Mohammed VI, are meant to commemorate the country's unity and solidarity. The day is also an opportunity for Morocco to reaffirm its commitment to regional and international cooperation. The King's initiatives have been instrumental in galvanizing support for Morocco's position on the Sahara issue.
The Moroccan Royal Cabinet's announcement on the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate marks a significant milestone in the country's efforts to resolve the Sahara issue. The move is expected to have far-reaching implications for the region, with Morocco seeking to consolidate its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Key points
- Morocco's Royal Cabinet announces non-renewal of MINURSO mandate
- The move marks a significant step towards closing the Sahara dossier
- Morocco remains committed to the ceasefire and its territorial integrity
