The Royal Diwan of Morocco released a statement on October 30, 2026, announcing that the UN Security Council did not extend the mandate of the MINURSO mission, a development considered significant and a major step towards resolving the Western Sahara issue within the United Nations. This move coincides with the celebration of "Unity Day," established by King Mohammed VI to address the issue and shift from mere management to a profound transformation of determinants.
The non-renewal of the MINURSO mission implies that the presence of the mission in Morocco's southern regions, including its personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols, should end in the coming days. This marks the end of a 35-year period, during which the mission, inherited from a bygone era, was seen as a tool for internationalizing the regional conflict over Morocco's claim to its desert territories.
The decision not to extend the MINURSO mandate is expected to put an end to the referral of this file to the Security Council and remove the issue from its agenda. Consequently, there will be no justification for holding regular meetings of the Council dedicated to Western Sahara, nor for reports from the UN Secretary-General or briefings from his personal envoy.
The end of the UN's political process, which has been characterized by procrastination from other parties and their insistence on creating a deadlock, will now stop. Similar steps will be taken within other UN bodies in the near future. Morocco has expressed satisfaction with this development while reaffirming its commitment to a ceasefire, respecting its territorial integrity, national security, and citizens' safety.
The international dynamic launched by King Mohammed VI will continue on bilateral and regional levels. This dynamic has already garnered significant support, with over two-thirds of UN members, including permanent Security Council members and influential international powers, endorsing the autonomy initiative within Moroccan sovereignty as the only framework for resolving the regional conflict.
The autonomy initiative, presented by Morocco, has gained substantial backing from the international community. This support reflects a growing recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over its desert territories and its efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
As Morocco moves forward, it is likely to engage in further diplomatic efforts to solidify its position and build on the momentum generated by the end of the MINURSO mission. The country remains committed to finding a lasting solution to the Western Sahara issue, one that respects its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Key points
- Morocco's Royal Diwan announces end of MINURSO mission, marking significant development in Western Sahara issue.
- Non-renewal of MINURSO mandate implies end of 35-year presence in Morocco's southern regions.
- Morocco reaffirms commitment to ceasefire, territorial integrity, and national security.
