Moroccan Businessman Brokered U.S. Recognition of Western Sahara Sovereignty

This article investigates the role of Moroccan businessman Yariv Elbaz as an intermediary between the United States and Morocco in negotiations leading to U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. The piece details how Elbaz leveraged his connections to facilitate diplomatic talks, culminating in a significant policy shift by the Trump administration in December 2020. The recognition was part of a broader deal that included Morocco normalizing relations with Israel. The article is the second episode of a series, providing insider accounts of the backchannel diplomacy. It highlights the influence of private actors in shaping foreign policy and the strategic importance of Western Sahara for Morocco's territorial claims.

Global Impact

The U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara has significant geopolitical and economic implications. It strengthens Morocco's position in the region, potentially destabilizing the Polisario Front and Algeria, which supports Sahrawi independence.