Morocco’s King Mohammed VI orders coordination of MINURSO withdrawal, reaffirms ceasefire commitment

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has directed the government to coordinate and support the withdrawal of the United Nations mission in Western Sahara, while reaffirming the kingdom’s commitment to the ceasefire.

The instructions followed a working session at the Royal Palace in Rabat on November 4, 2026, according to a Royal Office statement.

The meeting addressed the next steps after the UN Security Council did not renew MINURSO’s mandate on October 30. The UN has confirmed that the mission has ceased operations and entered a liquidation period.

King Mohammed VI instructed the Interior Ministry’s Office for Coordination with MINURSO to assist with the mission’s withdrawal. The Royal Office said the aim was to ensure a smooth and orderly process in cooperation with the United Nations.

The King also reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to the ceasefire, saying the end of the mission’s mandate would not alter that position.

During the session, he emphasised Morocco’s territorial integrity, national security and the safety of residents in the territory, which the kingdom refers to as its Southern Provinces.

He directed the officials responsible to implement these priorities firmly and vigilantly, while maintaining development programmes and major infrastructure projects.

Head of Government Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, royal adviser Fouad Ali El Himma, and Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit attended the meeting.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the South Zone, also participated.

According to the Royal Office, officials were instructed to monitor developments and maintain the kingdom’s previously stated position on the dispute.

The statement reiterated Morocco’s commitment to its international obligations and to pursuing peace while safeguarding its sovereignty.

It also restated the kingdom’s position that autonomy offers the political solution to the conflict, citing support from countries that recognise Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara.