An influential American lawyer has argued that the Polisario Front should be designated a terrorist organization, citing proposed legislation by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz. The lawyer's plea comes amid ongoing tensions in the Western Sahara region.
The Polisario Front, which seeks independence for Western Sahara from Morocco, has been involved in a decades-long conflict. The group is recognized by some nations but not by the United States or the United Nations as a legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people.
Senator Ted Cruz's proposed bill aims to classify certain entities as terrorist organizations, potentially impacting U.S. foreign policy. The lawyer's argument emphasizes the need for such a designation to combat alleged human rights abuses and destabilizing activities in the region.
As of May 30, 2026, no official action has been taken on the proposal. The U.S. State Department maintains its own list of foreign terrorist organizations, which currently does not include the Polisario Front.
