Western Sahara: Morocco’s push for us backing on territorial claims

Since late July, the United States has notably increased its economic and diplomatic engagement with Morocco. This intensified relationship builds upon Washington’s 2020 endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Western Sahara, a strategic decision that coincided with the kingdom’s normalization of relations with Israel. Currently, it appears the US is also prepared to support Morocco’s sovereignty claims over the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla. This evolving dynamic exerts significant pressure on Spain, particularly following the recent entry of thousands of Moroccan nationals and sub-Saharan migrants into Ceuta. Riccardo Fabiani, North Africa Director at the International Crisis Group, provides expert analysis on this critical geopolitical context and the expanding influence of the United States in the region, highlighting Morocco’s perception that this is a pivotal moment for US backing.

Depuis la fin du mois de juillet, les États-Unis multiplient les signes de rapprochement – tant économiques que diplomatiques – avec le Maroc.