The Moroccan Royal Cabinet has issued a statement following the UN Security Council's decision on October 30, 2026, not to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). According to the Cabinet, this move marks a significant step towards the definitive closure of the Western Sahara issue at the United Nations. This development coincides with Morocco's celebration of its Unity Day, decreed by King Mohammed VI.
The Royal Cabinet views this decision as a major evolution, signifying a shift from mere management to a profound transformation of the parameters governing the Western Sahara issue. The Cabinet believes that the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate should lead to the end of the Mission's presence in the southern provinces of Morocco, including the withdrawal of its personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols, in the coming days.
The Moroccan Royal Cabinet recalls that MINURSO, inherited from an outdated context, has long been an instrument for internationalizing the regional dispute over Morocco's legitimate recovery of its Saharan provinces. The Cabinet notes that the Mission was established 35 years ago and that its mandate not being renewed marks a significant turning point.
According to the Royal Cabinet, the end of MINURSO's mandate should also mark the end of the UN Security Council's involvement in the issue and its removal from the Council's agenda. This would mean that periodic meetings, reports from the UN Secretary-General, and briefings from his Personal Envoy would no longer be necessary.
The Royal Cabinet states that the UN political process, which has been hindered by the procrastination of other parties and their attempts to maintain the status quo, is now suspended. The Cabinet announces that similar actions will be taken within other UN bodies in the near future.
While expressing satisfaction with this development, Morocco reaffirms its commitment to the ceasefire, respecting its territorial integrity, national security, and the tranquility of its citizens. The Royal Cabinet emphasizes that the international momentum launched by King Mohammed VI will continue bilaterally and regionally.
The Moroccan Royal Cabinet highlights that over two-thirds of UN member states, including permanent members of the Security Council and influential powers, support the autonomy of Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty as the sole framework for resolving the regional dispute.
Key points
- Morocco's Royal Cabinet views the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate as a significant step towards closing the Western Sahara issue at the UN.
- The end of MINURSO's mandate is expected to lead to the withdrawal of the Mission's presence in the southern provinces of Morocco.
- Morocco reaffirms its commitment to the ceasefire and its territorial integrity, while continuing to garner international support for its position on Western Sahara.
