Israeli Diplomat's Influence Shapes Paraguay's Sahara Policy Shift

The Paraguayan Senate has made a historic move by formally endorsing Morocco's autonomy plan for Sahara, with Israeli diplomatic channels reportedly playing a significant role in this development. The resolution, passed during a November plenary session, marks the first time Paraguay's upper house has taken such a definitive stance on the territorial dispute.

According to The Jerusalem Post, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, who has Moroccan heritage, was instrumental in facilitating this diplomatic breakthrough. The resolution emerged following discussions between Ohana and key Paraguayan leaders, including Chamber of Deputies President Raúl Latorre and President Santiago Peña, during their visit to Israel.

The Senate's resolution actively encourages the Paraguayan government to formally adopt this position and advocate for it in international forums. The document has been officially transmitted to President Peña and Morocco's ambassador in Asuncion, Badreddine Abdelmoumni.

This recent endorsement builds upon Paraguay's existing support for Morocco's position, as evidenced by seven previous resolutions from the Chamber of Deputies, with five specifically addressing the territorial issue since the establishment of Morocco's Embassy in Asuncion in 2016.

The development reflects a broader shift in Latin American perspectives on the Sahara dispute. The region, which previously supported the Algerian-backed separatist movement, has seen an increasing number of countries reconsidering their positions after reportedly becoming disillusioned with the Polisario Front's ideological messaging.

The resolution specifically identifies Morocco's autonomy initiative as the sole foundation for achieving a peaceful and lasting resolution to the dispute. This plan has garnered substantial international support, with over 100 countries now recognizing it as a credible political solution that balances Morocco's sovereignty while providing autonomy to the region.

The story underscores the complex interplay of international diplomacy, highlighting how bilateral relationships and diplomatic engagement can influence regional policy positions on long-standing territorial disputes.