A blow to Algiers: UK endorses Morocco’s plan for Western Sahara

In a move that could reshape geopolitical dynamics in North Africa, the United Kingdom has thrown its weight behind Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara—calling it the “most credible” path forward. 

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s remarks during his recent visit to Rabat mark a significant diplomatic shift and further isolate Algeria’s longstanding claims over the disputed territory.

This endorsement is far from symbolic. It consolidates a growing international consensus that Morocco’s 2007 proposal—a plan offering genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty—is the only realistic solution in a conflict that has dragged on for nearly five decades. 

The United States, France, Spain, Israel, and a large bloc of African nations have already lined up behind the plan. Now, with Britain’s support, Rabat can credibly claim global momentum is on its side.

For Algeria, this is a political setback. Despite decades of supporting the Polisario Front and mobilizing diplomatic resources to block Moroccan advances, Algiers finds itself increasingly isolated. Its insistence on a referendum—a process that has proven logistically and politically impossible—no longer holds weight with the major powers shaping the global agenda.

More importantly, the UK’s statement reflects a pragmatic understanding of current realities. In today’s world of multiplying crises—from energy insecurity to regional instability—supporting a practical, peaceful, and development-focused solution like Morocco’s autonomy plan serves the broader international interest. 

Western Sahara under Moroccan administration has seen significant investment, infrastructure development, and increased living standards. In contrast, the Polisario-controlled refugee camps in Tindouf remain trapped in stagnation and dependency.

This moment should also serve as a wake-up call to institutions like the United Nations. Endless cycles of negotiations with no concrete outcomes only fuel despair and prolong suffering. 

Recognizing a viable solution that has both popular support within the territory and international backing is not only fair—it is urgent.

Morocco’s growing diplomatic clout is not accidental. It is the result of consistent engagement, reforms, and a vision for stability and progress. 

The UK’s endorsement is the latest validation of this trajectory. The time has come for the rest of the world to follow suit—not just in words, but in decisive action.

History will remember who stood on the side of realism, peace, and development—and who chose to remain stuck in the illusions of a past that no longer offers solutions.