US bill to designate Polisario as a terrorist organization gains new support in Congress

A legislative push to designate the Polisario Front as a terrorist organization in the U.S. continues to gain traction in Congress. Spearheaded by Republican Joe Wilson and Democrat Jimmy Panetta, the initiative recently secured the backing of two more Republican lawmakers: Scott DesJarlais and Matt Van Epps.

Scott DesJarlais chairs the Strategic Forces Subcommittee within the House Armed Services Committee. Meanwhile, Matt Van Epps serves on both the Homeland Security Committee and the Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security. Their support was officially documented on July 9.

Initially introduced on June 24, 2025, the proposal now boasts the support of fifteen Congress members, predominantly Republicans.

Concurrently, Republican Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a corresponding measure in the Senate to classify the Polisario Front as a terrorist entity, with three senators already backing the initiative.

As a reminder, on May 5, the Trump administration condemned projectile attacks claimed by the Polisario against civilian targets in Es-Smara.