France, through a statement from President Emmanuel Macron, has officially recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. This represents a notable shift in Paris's stance, as it had previously supported only the autonomy plan.
Algerian political parties have criticized France for supporting the autonomy proposal for the Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty. Meanwhile, media outlets have reported that a planned visit by President Tebboune to Paris has been canceled.
Two days after Algeria condemned France's decision to recognize Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara, the Polisario Front broke its silence. The group stated that the French government's decision «constitutes a dangerous escalation» and excludes France from all international efforts to resolve the conflict.
On Thursday, Algeria anticipated the official announcement of French support for the Sahara autonomy plan. In a statement, the Algerian Foreign Ministry rebuked Paris, holding it «entirely responsible for the consequences resulting from this decision».