Mauritania Takes Stand Against Polisario Presence in Border Region
Tensions are rising in the Western Sahara region as the Mauritanian army has reportedly taken decisive action against the Polisario Front’s presence in the “L’brika” border area. According to an Algerian news outlet, Mauritanian forces conducted a sweeping operation, clearing the region of smugglers, outlaws, and Polisario fighters who were allegedly using the area as a strategic base.
The report suggests that Polisario operatives were utilizing L’brika to stockpile supplies and fuel before venturing into the buffer zone, a restricted area under United Nations supervision. This area has been a flashpoint for military activity, with the Polisario Front and Morocco, who claims sovereignty over Western Sahara, engaging in sporadic clashes.
The Algerian news source cited leaked audio recordings from Mauritanian traders who claimed to have witnessed the Mauritanian army’s operation. These traders reported seeing Polisario fighters being expelled from the region.
This development underscores Mauritania’s commitment to maintaining neutrality in the long-standing Western Sahara conflict. While the Mauritanian government has not officially confirmed the operation, the news has sparked significant interest and speculation about the region’s future stability.
The situation in Western Sahara remains complex and sensitive. The Polisario Front, recognized by the United Nations as the representative of the Sahrawi people, has been fighting for independence from Morocco since the 1970s. The conflict has resulted in a protracted humanitarian crisis and fueled regional instability.
Mauritania’s recent actions highlight the volatile nature of the border region and the challenges faced by the international community in finding a lasting solution to the Western Sahara conflict.
