السفير هلال: "تقسيم الصحراء" فكرة جزائرية .. والمنطقة ليست في حالة حرب

"Dividing the Sahara" Is an Algerian Idea: The Region Is Not at War

The Moroccan ambassador to the UN, Omar Hilal, has stated that Rabat has always opposed the idea of dividing the Moroccan Sahara, emphasizing that there is no war in the region, only skirmishes by the Polisario Front.

The Algerian Proposal:

Hilal stated that neither James Baker nor De Mistura proposed the division of the Sahara, but rather reported the ideas presented by Algerian officials. He added that former Algerian president Abdelaziz Bouteflika first proposed the idea in 2001. Morocco categorically rejected this proposal, which Baker had received through a letter from the Algerian ambassador to the UN at the time. De Mistura's recent proposal was similarly rejected by Morocco.

The Moroccan diplomat questioned the timing of this proposal, stating that Algeria presents these ideas whenever they feel vulnerable and pressured by the international community. The proposal to divide the Sahara, he explained, came after the failure of the referendum proposal and was an attempt to distract the international community.

Morocco's Steadfast Position:

Hilal emphasized that Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara and its territorial integrity are not subject to negotiation. He reminded that Moroccans swore not to relinquish their land and that the loyalty of the inhabitants of the southern provinces to the King, along with the blood of the martyrs in the Sahara sands, serve as indicators that prevent them from surrendering their land.

The Role of De Mistura:

Regarding the six-month deadline given to De Mistura to find a solution, Hilal stressed that Morocco's position is clear and De Mistura's role is also well defined. He insisted that De Mistura is not allowed to interfere in the affairs of the UN and the Security Council, and should focus on his mandate to revive negotiations. He criticized De Mistura for succumbing to Algeria's refusal to negotiate.

The Polisario Front and the Real Threat:

Hilal emphasized that the situation in the Moroccan Sahara is not a war but rather skirmishes initiated by the Polisario Front. He concluded that the solution lies with Algeria, specifically in halting the financing of the Polisario Front mercenaries. He also highlighted the visit of French President Macron to Morocco and the consulates of many countries in the Moroccan Sahara, as well as the investment projects in the region, as evidence that the area is not at war.