Freedom for Ukraine, Freedom for Western Sahara
JacobinJUN 2022
Following Washington's lead, Israel is going through with the upgrading of its diplomatic ties with Rabat by recognizing Morocco's claim of sovereignty over the Western Sahara. The move will eventually lead to the opening of official embassies and a possible future free-trade pact — developments that would help bring stability to the region.
The UN doesn't recognize Moroccan control over Western Sahara as the territory is considered a "non-self-governing territory," but it hasn't yet lived up to its long-promised referendum, which would establish the territory's status. Morocco controls more than three-quarters of Western Sahara and doesn't allow any pro-independence opposition of any form. Under international law, Morocco has no authority over Western Sahara.