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UN's top security body has adopted a US-backed resolution that favors Moroccan position regarding the disputed territory, notwithstanding significant opposition from Algeria.

Split Decision Strengthens Moroccan Stance

Although Friday's decision was split, the measure represents the most significant endorsement yet for Moroccan proposal to retain control over the region, which also has support from the majority of European Union countries and a growing number of African allies.

Measure Framework and Important Elements

The resolution describes Morocco's proposal as a foundation for negotiation. As with previous measures, the document doesn't include a vote on independence that contains independence as an choice, which represents the approach long supported by the independence-seeking Polisario movement and its allies.

Real autonomy under Morocco's authority could represent a most feasible solution.

Background Context

Western Sahara is a phosphate-rich stretch of coastal arid land the area of a US state which was under Spain's rule until the mid-1970s. It is claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front, which operates from refugee camps in south-western neighboring Algeria and asserts to represent the indigenous people native to the contested territory.

Decision Results and International Reactions

The United States, which sponsored the resolution, guided eleven countries in deciding in support, while 3 countries – multiple nations – abstained. The neighboring country, the movement's main benefactor, did not vote.

Mike Waltz, the US representative to the United Nations, said the decision had been "significant" and would "build on the momentum for a much-delayed resolution in the region".

The Algerian ambassador, the Algeria's representative to the UN, commented that while the measure was an advancement on earlier iterations, it "still has a series of deficiencies".

Peacekeeping Mission and Upcoming Review

The measure also extends the UN security mission in the territory for another twelve months, as has been implemented for more than three decades. Previous renewals, though, have not contained a reference to Morocco and its allies' preferred resolution.

The UN resolution urges all parties participating to "seize this unique chance for a enduring resolution." Based on developments, it requests the secretary general to review the peacekeeping mission's mandate within half a year.

Regional Consequences and Present Situation

The shift could disrupt a protracted process that for decades has eluded settlement, desdespite a UN security operation that was intended to be short-term. Protests have followed in indigenous settlements in the neighboring country this week, where people have vowed not to give up their fight for self-determination.

The Moroccan government administers nearly all of the territory, excluding a narrow area called the "liberated area" that lies east of a constructed by Morocco barrier.

Past Context and Recent Events

A 1991-era truce was meant to facilitate a vote on self-determination, but disagreements over voter eligibility blocked it from taking place.

Over the years, Morocco has developed the contested territory, constructing a deepwater port and a long road. State support keep basic commodity prices affordable, and the population has ballooned as Moroccans settle in cities such as Dakhla and Laayoune.

The movement withdrew from the truce in 2020 after clashes near a road Morocco was constructing to Mauritania.

The group has subsequently frequently documented military activity, while Morocco has primarily rejected claims of active fighting. The UN describes it "limited hostilities".

Global Relations and Future Prospects

Reacting to the draft resolution, the movement said that it would not join any initiative aiming "to validate Morocco's unauthorized military occupation," saying resolution "can never be achieved by supporting territorial claims".

The conflict represents the driving force in regional diplomacy. The Moroccan government considers support for its autonomy plan as a benchmark for how it assesses its allies.

Recently, the UN envoy suggested dividing Western Sahara, a suggestion neither side agreed to. He encouraged the government to clarify what self-rule would involve and warned that a absence of progress might question the UN's role and "whether there is space and readiness for us to remain useful."

The push to reassess the United Nations Mission comes as the United States slashes financial support for United Nations initiatives and organizations, covering peacekeeping.