Algeria disapproves Israel recognition of Morocco sovereignty over Western Sahara

Algeria has expressed strong disapproval of Israel’s recent recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara region. The move, according to Algeria, violates international law and undermines the rights of the Sahrawi people.
Morocco considers Western Sahara to be an integral part of its territory, but the Algerian-backed Polisario Front seeks to establish an independent state in the region. The longstanding conflict between the two parties has caused tensions and divisions in North Africa.

UPDATE: Algeria, in an unequivocal statement on Thursday, vehemently condemned Israel’s decision to acknowledge Moroccan sovereignty over the contested Western Sahara region. Algeria asserted that this action directly breaches internationally established laws and regulations. pic.twitter.com/lFysiFgL1o
— Ericson Mangoli (@ericsonmangoli) July 20, 2023

In 2020, former US President Donald Trump recognized Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara as part of a diplomatic agreement. This recognition came as a result of Morocco’s decision to restore diplomatic ties with Israel. Israel, in a similar vein, recently announced its recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the region.
However, Algeria firmly opposes these actions, emphasising that they do not confer legitimacy on Morocco’s claims over the occupied Sahara lands. The Algerian Foreign Ministry issued a statement stating its position and calling for respect of international law and the rights of the Sahrawi people.
The escalating tensions between Algeria and Morocco have led to a deteriorating relationship between the two countries. Algeria cut diplomatic ties with Morocco in 2021, citing what it described as “hostile acts.” President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria has stated that the relationship between the two nations has reached a point of no return.

In a diplomatic move, Israel has officially acknowledged Morocco’s sovereignty over the long-disputed territory of Western Sahara. It signifies a major shift in Israel’s foreign policy, strengthening its ties with Morocco and potentially expanding its presence in the region. pic.twitter.com/DQiSHwlsY0
— Ericson Mangoli (@ericsonmangoli) July 18, 2023

The dispute over Western Sahara has been a longstanding issue in North Africa. The region has seen a bitter rivalry between Algeria and Morocco for decades, with both countries claiming historical and cultural links to the region. The situation has been further complicated by the involvement of external actors and their conflicting interests.
Amidst this backdrop, the recent recognition of Moroccan sovereignty by Israel comes as a significant development. Israel’s decision has raised concerns among supporters of the Sahrawi cause, who see it as a setback to their aspirations for self-determination. The move has also been criticised by various international actors, who argue that it undermines the ongoing peace process and the role of the United Nations in resolving the conflict.
The United States, which recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara under the Trump administration, has reiterated its position and stated that it remains unchanged. This has further deepened the divide between Algeria and the US on the issue.