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UN's top security body has adopted a US-backed measure that supports Moroccan claim regarding the disputed territory, notwithstanding fierce opposition from Algeria.

Divided Vote Strengthens Morocco's Stance

Although Friday's decision was divided, the measure constitutes the most significant support yet for Moroccan plan to maintain control over the territory, which also has support from most EU members and a growing number of African allies.

Measure Structure and Key Components

The resolution refers to Moroccan plan as a basis for talks. Similar to earlier measures, the document makes no mention of a referendum on independence that contains independence as an option, which represents the approach traditionally supported by the pro-independence Polisario movement and its allies.

Real self-rule under Moroccan authority could represent a most feasible resolution.

Background Context

Western Sahara is a mineral-rich area of coastline desert the size of Colorado which was under Spain's control until 1975. It is claimed by both the Moroccan government and the Polisario movement, which functions from temporary settlements in south-western Algeria and claims to speak for the indigenous people native to the contested region.

Decision Results and Global Reactions

The US, which proposed the measure, guided 11 countries in deciding in favor, while 3 nations – Russia, China and Pakistan – abstained. The neighboring country, Polisario's main benefactor, did not vote.

Mike Waltz, the American representative to the United Nations, said the decision had been "significant" and would "build on the momentum for a much-delayed resolution in Western Sahara".

Amar Bendjama, the Algeria's ambassador to the United Nations, said that while the measure was an improvement on earlier versions, it "still has a number of deficiencies".

Peacekeeping Operation and Future Assessment

The measure also renews the United Nations peacekeeping operation in the territory for another year, as has been done for over three decades. Prior renewals, though, have not contained a mention to Moroccan and its supporters' preferred resolution.

The measure calls on all parties involved to "seize this unprecedented opportunity for a lasting peace." Based on developments, it requests the UN leader to assess the operation's mandate within six months.

Regional Impact and Current Situation

The change could disrupt a protracted situation that for many years has escaped settlement, desdespite a United Nations peacekeeping mission that was intended to be short-term. Protests have ensued in Sahrawi refugee camps in Algeria this week, where people have vowed not to abandon their fight for independence.

Morocco controls nearly all of Western Sahara, excluding a thin strip known as the "liberated area" that lies east of a Moroccan-built barrier.

Historical Context and Recent Events

A 1991-era ceasefire was intended to facilitate a referendum on self-determination, but disagreements over voter eligibility blocked it from taking place.

Through time, Morocco has transformed the contested region, building a maritime facility and a long highway. State subsidies keep basic commodity prices affordable, and the resident count has ballooned as Moroccans establish homes in cities such as major settlements.

Polisario withdrew from the truce in recent years after confrontations near a road Morocco was constructing to Mauritania.

The movement has subsequently frequently documented security activity, while the government has mostly denied open conflict. The UN describes it "limited hostilities".

International Relations and Future Possibilities

In response to the proposed measure, Polisario said that it would not participate in any process aiming "to validate Moroccan unauthorized military occupation," saying peace "can never be achieved by rewarding territorial claims".

The situation constitutes the driving force in regional international relations. Morocco considers support for its proposal as a standard for how it assesses its allies.

Last October, the UN envoy suggested dividing Western Sahara, a proposal no party accepted. He urged Morocco to specify what autonomy would entail and warned that a absence of progress might raise questions about the UN's function and "whether there is space and willingness for us to still be effective."

The initiative to review the UN operation comes as the United States slashes financial support for UN programmes and organizations, including security operations.