UN’s peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara enters liquidation phase after mandate expires
Summary
The U.N. peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara is entering liquidation after its mandate expired, with personnel being repatriated and facilities closed following a Security Council deadlock. The move leaves the region’s fragile ceasefire and long-running dispute between Morocco and the Polisario Front uncertain.
Key Points
- The U.N. mission MINURSO in Western Sahara is beginning a liquidation phase after its mandate expired and a Security Council stalemate prevented renewal.
- The drawdown includes repatriating about 160 military observers, reducing 180 civilian and affiliated staff, and closing around 13 mission facilities and team sites.
- Morocco welcomed the mission’s end, while the Polisario Front and Algeria criticized the decision not to renew the mandate.
- The closure raises new questions about security, stability, and the future of the ceasefire in the disputed territory.
