UN Adopts Resolution 2797 Backing Morocco Plan

The U.N. Security Council adopted U.S.-backed Resolution 2797, renewing the MINURSO mandate until 31 October 2026 and explicitly describing Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara as a “genuine” or “most feasible” basis for a political solution. The vote passed with 11 in favor, three abstentions (including Russia and China) and one council member not participating (Algeria). The text drops prior U.N.-backed referendum language and calls on the parties to negotiate using Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal as the basis, while asking the U.N. secretary-general for a strategic review of MINURSO within six months. The resolution welcomes international momentum and offers of U.S. facilitation but has been fiercely rejected by Algeria and the Polisario Front, which say they will not engage on the plan’s terms. Supporters including Morocco and its Western allies hailed the move as a diplomatic victory, while critics warn it risks heightening regional tensions over the disputed, resource-rich territory.