Morocco marks Green March anniversary as Western Sahara dispute enters new phase
Associated Press ·
Morocco commemorates the 1975 Green March, marking its claim over Western Sahara from Spanish rule. In Laayoune, Moroccan flags and portraits of King Mohammed VI are displayed prominently. The anniversary highlights the ongoing conflict with Sahrawis who seek independence. The U.N. Security Council recently failed to renew the peacekeeping mission's mandate, which expired October 31. Morocco welcomes this, gaining support from allies like the U.S. and France for its autonomy proposal. The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria and Russia, insists on a referendum for independence. Despite development efforts, residents face economic challenges.