First UN reaction to dron attack against a Polisario high Commander in Western Sahara

During a recent UN press briefing, the spokesperson addressed questions regarding developments in Western Sahara, including the ongoing efforts of the UN Personal Envoy Staffan de Mistura and recent security incidents in the region.

On Mr. de Mistura’s visit to the Tindouf refugee camps, journalists noted he was not received by senior Polisario officials. The spokesperson downplayed concerns about tensions, stating that de Mistura “is continuing with his efforts” and is seeking to meet with representatives from all relevant parties as part of his ongoing regional engagement.

Regarding security developments, the spokesperson expressed “deep concern” over reports of a drone strike in the Mijek area that allegedly targeted a military vehicle linked to the Polisario Front, resulting in three fatalities. The UN mission MINURSO is reportedly seeking security clearances from the parties in order to investigate the incident.

The spokesperson also stressed that these events occur in a sensitive context, as de Mistura continues his diplomatic efforts. All sides were urged to respect the ceasefire and avoid military actions that could undermine progress toward a mutually acceptable political solution.

Here is the full text of the declaration on Western Sahara

Question: On Western Sahara, recently, Staffan de Mistura visited the refugee camps in Tindouf, and I have noticed that he was not received by senior Polisario officials. Does that indicate there is displeasure with Staffan de Mistura?

Spokesperson: Mr. de Mistura is continuing with his efforts. He is going to try to meet with as many officials from the various sides as possible, and we’ll see who he can meet with, but that visit is ongoing.

Question: Yeah, a follow-up to that. Recently, there were three members of the [Frente POLISARIO] were killed by a Moroccan drone inside what is called the buffer zone. Was there any statement on that, any investigation? What can you tell us? Because when the [Frente POLISARIO] attacked the city of Smara, there was some investigation, and we heard from MINURSO [United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara].

Spokesperson: What I can tell you is we’re deeply concerned about the reports concerning a drone strike that targeted a Frente POLISARIO military vehicle in the Mijek area, resulting in three fatalities. The UN Mission, MINURSO, is seeking security clearances from the parties to conduct an investigation of that incident. And of course, you’re aware that this is happening while Mr. de Mistura is in the region, and we call for respect of the ceasefire in the context of the Personal Envoy’s efforts to advance the political process. And Mr. de Mistura has expressed his concern regarding these recent events and recalls that military actions from any side risk jeopardizing the progress made towards a lasting, mutually acceptable solution to the conflict.

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