The UN orders the dismantling of the mission in the Sahara as the risk of military escalation rises

The UN has ordered the dismantling of the MINURSO mission in Western Sahara after a veto by the US and Russia, ending 35 years of unfulfilled objectives. The mission, created to organize a self-determination referendum, has been deemed ineffective, leading to concerns about escalating conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front. Morocco is eager for the UN mission to leave, asserting that the issue should be resolved through bilateral agreements. The withdrawal of UN observers raises fears of increased military actions and instability in the region, as the ceasefire has already collapsed since 2020. The situation remains precarious, with the potential for broader conflict if tensions escalate further.