Rabat – Israel’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Western Sahara region has been received as a positive stride toward fostering peace in the Middle East and North Africa.
On Friday, US Senator James Lankford, representing Oklahoma in the upper house of Congress, expressed his optimism regarding the latest development in the Western Sahara dispute.
In a post on X, Lankford wrote that Israel’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara is “another win for the Abraham Accords,” adding that it is “great news for progress toward peace in the Middle East and North Africa.”
In another win for the Abraham Accords, Israel has now recognized Western Sahara as part of Morocco—This is great news for progress toward peace in the Middle East and North Africa.
— Sen. James Lankford (@SenatorLankford) August 11, 2023
Lankford is not the first prominent US politician to express support for Israel’s decision.
Earlier this month, US Senator Ted Cruz also voiced his approval of Israel’s recent decision to acknowledge Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
Cruz underscored the importance of the decision, particularly in bolstering bilateral relationships and encouraging an upsurge in Israeli tourists visiting Morocco.
The anticipated influx of visitors is predicted to further stimulate economic connections and interpersonal exchanges between the two nations.
The endorsement by Israel holds substantial significance as it further supports Morocco’s territorial integrity and affirms the country’s sovereignty over its southern provinces.
The decision was communicated through a letter from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, according to a statement from the Royal Cabinet.
Netanyahu’s letter conveyed his country’s formal recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Western Sahara. The Israeli Prime Minister emphasized that this recognition would be reflected in all relevant governmental actions and documents.
In addition, the Israeli government underscored its intent to convey the decision to international bodies and organizations, including the United Nations and regional entities.
Soon following the recognition, Israel announced plans to establish a consulate in the city of Dakhla. This decision, affirmed by Netanyahu, signifies the tangible steps Israel is willing to take in support of the recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty.
Read Also: Western Sahara: Ted Cruz Applauds Israel’s Recognition of Morocco’s Sovereignty
