The United States convened a new round of negotiations on Western Sahara in Washington on Monday, bringing together Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front in a renewed bid to resolve the nearly five decade old dispute. The meeting marks the third round of talks in a month, following earlier discussions at the US embassy in Madrid. Washington’s initiative is being led by Massad Boulos, Africa envoy under President Donald Trump, with analysts suggesting the administration is seeking a diplomatic breakthrough by spring.
At the core of the negotiations is Morocco’s autonomy proposal, which the US supports as the framework for a political solution, a stance aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 2797 adopted in October. Rabat argues the plan would grant Western Sahara local self-governance under Moroccan sovereignty. However, the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria insists on a referendum that includes full self-determination, rejecting any outcome that excludes independence as an option.
Beyond territorial control, symbolic and identity issues remain contentious. Reports indicate Morocco’s proposal would not grant official recognition to a separate Sahrawi national identity, including its own flag or anthem, a point strongly opposed by Sahrawi representatives. Observers note that autonomy models elsewhere, including US states such as California, allow regional symbols within unified national frameworks. The closed-door talks are expected to continue through Tuesday, with diplomats cautiously optimistic but acknowledging that significant gaps remain between the parties.
