Algeria has clarified its position regarding the ongoing negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front over the disputed territory of Western Sahara. In a statement on May 24, 2026, the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Algeria is not a party to the conflict and will not participate in any direct talks between the two sides.
The clarification comes ahead of a new round of UN-led negotiations scheduled for June 2026 in Geneva. Algeria has consistently maintained that it supports a political solution to the conflict under UN auspices but insists that its role is limited to that of a neighboring country, not a direct stakeholder.
Morocco has repeatedly called for Algeria to be included in the talks, arguing that Algeria's support for the Polisario Front makes it a key player. However, Algeria's statement emphasized that it will not be drawn into the negotiations, which it views as a bilateral matter between Morocco and the representatives of the Sahrawi people.
The Western Sahara conflict dates back to 1975, when Morocco annexed the territory after Spain withdrew. The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, seeks independence for the region. The UN has been mediating peace efforts for decades, with the latest round of talks stalled since 2019 until a recent resumption in 2025.
Analysts suggest that Algeria's stance may complicate efforts to reach a lasting resolution, as its influence over the Polisario Front is significant. The upcoming Geneva talks are seen as a critical opportunity to revive the peace process.
