Revelation: Assad's Regime Was a Sanctuary for Polisario Separatists

New reports reveal that Bashar al-Assad’s regime acted as a sanctuary for separatist factions, notably the Polisario Front, which claims independence for southern Morocco. Following the regime's collapse, these revelations shed light on the dark dealings behind Assad's survival tactics, as well as his collaboration with groups like the Polisario Front.

Assad’s Alleged Collaboration with Separatist Factions

Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, documents have surfaced that show secret alliances between Syria and separatist organizations. Among the most significant revelations is a confidential document, reportedly from January 2012, which highlights a covert agreement between Syria and the Polisario Front. According to the document, Polisario members were trained by the Syrian Arab Army.

The document also details communications between Algeria’s Ministry of Defense, Syria’s Ministry of Defense, and Polisario leadership, culminating in an agreement to train 120 Polisario fighters. These trainees were divided into four groups, with some senior members of the Polisario leadership even traveling to Beirut in December 2011 for consultations with Hezbollah, coordinating military training operations in Syria.

While the authenticity of this document is still unverified, it suggests that the Assad regime’s alliances extended to groups that challenge the sovereignty of neighboring countries and destabilize regional security.

Polisario’s Continuing Role in Regional Instability

Polisario’s long history of involvement in regional destabilization includes attacks targeting Moroccan civilians. The most recent occurred in November, when a terrorist attack struck civilians in Mahbes, a region in southern Morocco. Though no casualties were reported, such attacks contribute to ongoing instability and hinder the United Nations-led political process aimed at resolving the Western Sahara conflict.

Further complicating matters is Polisario’s documented connection to terrorist organizations. In 2017, Moroccan security officials identified 100 Polisario members who had joined ISIS, including Adnan Abu Al Walid, one of the most wanted ISIS militants. This connection underscores Polisario’s role as a destabilizing force in the region, with growing concerns about its continued activities.

The End of Assad’s Support for Polisario

Syria has supported Polisario’s claim of independence since the 1970s, but the fall of Assad’s regime appears to mark the end of Syria’s backing. Analysts argue that this could weaken Polisario’s position, as it loses its last significant ally in the Middle East. Reports suggest that as Assad’s regime collapsed, Polisario elements even fought alongside Syrian government forces, further entrenching their role in the Syrian conflict.

Morocco has long highlighted the Polisario Front’s ties to Iran and Hezbollah, including their collaboration in training militias. In May 2018, Morocco froze its diplomatic ties with Iran after allegations that Hezbollah had trained Polisario forces. Though these accusations were denied by all parties involved, Morocco presented documents and satellite images supporting its claims.

As Syria grapples with the aftermath of Assad’s departure, many are left questioning the future of the region and the fate of separatist groups like Polisario. Without the backing of the Syrian regime, the Polisario Front may face a diminished role in the Middle East, but its historical involvement in terrorism and regional destabilization remains a significant concern.