UN Security Council Receives Western Sahara Sovereignty Warning

Algeria has formally cautioned the United Nations Security Council against adopting any resolution that could endorse Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. Speaking during the Fourth Committee of the UN General Assembly in New York, Algeria's Permanent Representative to the UN, Amar Bendjama, stated unequivocally that "no party has the right to grant sovereignty over the territory, not even the Security Council." This diplomatic action underscores Algeria's consistent engagement on the issue as the Security Council prepares for a resolution concerning the conflict.

Mr. Bendjama reiterated Algeria's steadfast position that Western Sahara remains an unresolved matter of decolonization. He emphasized that the Sahrawi people are the sole sovereign authority over their territory, whose future must be decided through their free will, a principle enshrined by UN General Assembly resolutions 1514 and 1541 and supported by the International Court of Justice. Algeria asserts that any proposed solution cannot be deemed just or lasting if it is predetermined or imposed, cautioning against pressures on Sahrawis to abandon their aspirations for freedom and dignity in favor of a status quo.

Furthermore, the Permanent Representative highlighted Algeria's deep concern over recent developments, describing them as a "shameful deal" made at the expense of both the Palestinian and Sahrawi peoples, alluding to the 2020 tripartite agreement. He also addressed the plight of Sahrawi refugees, affirming their UN-guaranteed status, international protection, and right to assistance. Mr. Bendjama urged UN member states to continue providing necessary support, protection, and aid to these refugees, pending a just and durable political resolution to the Western Sahara conflict. He also explicitly warned against any manipulation, which he termed "blackmail by hunger," to coerce Sahrawi refugees into accepting short-term political solutions.