Algerian ambassador scrambles to counter U.S. terror label proposal against Polisario

Algeria Fights Back Against Potential U.S. Terror Label for Polisario

Diplomatic Scramble Follows Congressional Proposal with Serious Implications

A recent U.S. congressional proposal to designate the Polisario Front as a terrorist organization has prompted Algerian officials into urgent diplomatic action. The initiative, introduced by Democratic Congressman Jimmy Panetta and Republican Congressman Joe Wilson last month, threatens the Polisario Front's standing and could significantly impact Algeria's position in the region.

High-Level Talks and Growing Concern

Algerian Ambassador to the United States, Sabri Boukadoum, met with Congressman Panetta on Wednesday to discuss regional security, U.S.-Algerian relations, and transnational terrorism in Africa. While details of the meeting remain limited, Congressman Panetta confirmed the discussion on social media, expressing appreciation for the dialogue but maintaining a restrained tone.

This diplomatic outreach signals growing concern in Algiers that the proposed designation could shift international perceptions and policymaking against the Polisario Front.

A Potential Blow to Polisario and Algeria

If passed, the terrorist designation would trigger legal and financial consequences for the Polisario Front, including asset freezes, travel restrictions, and increased surveillance. More significantly, it could severely weaken the group's international standing.

Lawmakers supporting the bill claim the Polisario has ties to criminal and extremist networks in the Sahel and alleges links to Iranian-backed groups like Hezbollah and the Syrian regime. These accusations echo longstanding Moroccan claims about the Polisario’s alleged involvement in arms trafficking and militant activities in the region. Algeria, which politically and diplomatically supports the Polisario Front, rejects these characterizations.

Algeria's Counteroffensive

To counter this potential blow, Algeria has intensified lobbying efforts in Washington. Recent months have seen Algerian officials sign a defense cooperation memorandum with the U.S., and actively pursue military purchases from the U.S., even at the expense of their longstanding alliance with Russia. The reappearance of former U.S. national security advisor John Bolton, a vocal Polisario supporter, in Algerian lobbying circles further highlights this strategy.

A formal designation would be a major diplomatic defeat for both the Polisario Front and Algeria, which insists its support for the group is solely humanitarian and principled. It would also strengthen Morocco's position, particularly as more countries, including the U.S. under President Trump, recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara.