The long-standing Western Sahara dispute witnessed a potentially “decisive turning point” on October 31, 2025, with the adoption of a significant UN Security Council resolution. Resolution 2797 (2025), which renewed the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), was widely perceived in Morocco as a strong endorsement of its 2007 Autonomy Plan. The resolution, adopted with 11 votes in favor, none against, and three abstentions (China, Pakistan, and Russia), called on the parties to engage in negotiations “taking as basis Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal,” recognizing that “genuine autonomy could represent a most feasible outcome” for a “just, lasting and mutually acceptable resolution.”
King Mohammed VI of Morocco quickly addressed the nation following the resolution’s adoption, characterizing the moment as historic. In his speech, the monarch stated, “This is a pivotal moment and a crucial turning point in the history of modern Morocco. There is a before October 31, 2025 era, and an after October 30.” He stressed that the country was “starting a new chapter in the process of consolidating the Moroccanness of the Sahara, and closing, once and for all, this fabricated conflict, within the framework of a consensual solution based on the Autonomy Initiative.” His remarks underscored a national confidence that the diplomatic momentum had shifted definitively in Rabat’s favor.
The resolution is being hailed as a major diplomatic victory for Morocco, confirming years of quiet diplomatic efforts. The text notably reinforced the position of the Autonomy Plan, which proposes wide self-governance for the disputed territory under Moroccan sovereignty. Moroccan officials, including the Foreign Minister, emphasized the personal commitment of King Mohammed VI, noting that the King’s efforts were crucial to securing the necessary international support. The vote’s outcome—11 votes in favor with no veto—was seen as a powerful reflection of a “growing international endorsement” of Morocco’s vision as the most realistic path to a political solution.
The international support for Morocco’s position has broadened in recent years, setting the stage for the 2025 resolution. Major world powers, including the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, have either fully recognized Morocco’s sovereignty or explicitly backed the Autonomy Plan as the most credible solution. Morocco’s Foreign Minister noted that the success in the Security Council was built on this foundation, thanking allies for their “constructive stances and tireless efforts.” The resolution also followed numerous diplomatic achievements, such as over 30 countries opening consulates in the southern Moroccan cities of Laayoune and Dakhla, reinforcing the on-the-ground reality.
Public and local reactions across Morocco were immediate and fervent. Spontaneous celebrations erupted in cities across the country, especially in the southern provinces, where residents took to the streets waving national flags and portraits of the King. This popular exuberance reflects a deep-seated commitment to Morocco’s territorial integrity. Furthermore, prominent Moroccan figures, including national football stars, used their platforms to welcome the news, sharing messages like the national slogan: “God, Homeland, King,” illustrating the broad national consensus and emotional connection to the Western Sahara file.
Despite the triumphant tone in Rabat, King Mohammed VI also stressed that Morocco would not exploit the resolution to fuel division. He affirmed that Morocco remains committed to a “solution where there are no winners or losers – a solution that preserves the dignity of all parties.” He extended a “sincere appeal” to Sahrawi refugees in the Tindouf camps, urging them to “seize this historic opportunity in order to reunite with their families, and take advantage of the Autonomy Initiative.” This call for dialogue and reunification, coupled with a renewed pledge to work towards the revival of the Maghreb Union, suggests that while Morocco views the diplomatic battle as largely won, the next phase will focus on implementing the vision of a unified and integrated region.
