The United States has reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, maintaining that Morocco’s autonomy proposal remains the preferred framework for resolving the decades-long territorial dispute.
The position was conveyed by US President Donald Trump in a message to King Mohammed VI during Morocco’s 27th Throne Day celebrations, according to a statement from the Royal Office.
Trump said Washington remained committed to its stance, describing Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the most credible and realistic basis for achieving a lasting political solution. He stressed that prolonging the conflict was unacceptable and called for renewed efforts to bring the dispute to an end.
The US president also praised King Mohammed VI’s leadership, describing Morocco as a key partner in promoting regional peace, combating extremism, and strengthening security cooperation, particularly in the Sahel region.
He said the United States would continue to deepen economic ties with Morocco, encouraging investment and development, including in Western Sahara. Trump highlighted opportunities for cooperation in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, defence, and critical minerals.
The Royal Office said the message reflected the strength of the strategic partnership between Rabat and Washington and reaffirmed continued US backing for Morocco’s position on Western Sahara.
Western Sahara has remained disputed since Spain withdrew from the territory in 1975. Morocco controls most of the area and considers it part of the kingdom, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, continues to push for an independent Sahrawi state.
The United Nations continues to support a negotiated political solution acceptable to all parties and maintains a peacekeeping mission in the territory as diplomatic efforts continue.
The United States first recognised Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020, becoming the first major Western country to formally adopt that position. Trump’s latest message signals that Washington remains committed to that policy.
