Low prospects for Morocco-Algeria relations, fueled by arms race and aggressive posturing

Prospects for improved Morocco-Algeria relations are slim, with tensions escalating over the Western Sahara issue, according to Oxford Analytica. The firm also highlights the potential for increased conflict due to military spending, aggressive rhetoric, and the involvement of the Polisario Front.

Sahara : When the Polisario blocked the self-determination referendum

As Staffan de Mistura prepares to relaunch consultations on Western Sahara, the Polisario Front is once again demanding a referendum on self-determination. However, this option was dismissed by the UN over two decades ago, following a voter identification process plagued by disagreements.

Madrid's Africa strategy faces criticism over Western Sahara exclusion

Morocco-Israel offshore oil deal in Sahara sparks Canary Islands concerns

Spain’s Africa strategy excludes Western Sahara

Morocco partners with Israeli firm for Sahara offshore oil and gas exploration

Algeria's contradictory rhetoric on the Sahara issue results in diplomatic isolation

Algeria presents itself as merely an observer in the Sahara conflict, yet it treats the dispute as a key determinant of its foreign policy and works to diplomatically undermine Morocco. However, the ongoing shifts in the positions of international and regional powers have placed Algeria in a position of weakness.

Spain responds to the launch of Madrid-Dakhla air route

Spanish Government remains silent on expulsions of nationals from Western Sahara

Pro-Moroccan lobbying firm faces scrutiny from Polisario-aligned MEPs