A closed-door meeting was held in Madrid on February 8, 2026, aimed at addressing the long-standing conflict in Western Sahara. The United States organized this session, bringing together high-level delegations from Algeria, Morocco, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front in an effort to advance negotiations regarding the Western Sahara issue. U.S. involvement signifies a notable increase in diplomatic commitment to finding a resolution, particularly one that leans toward Morocco's proposed autonomy plan.

The status of Western Sahara, an area primarily controlled by Morocco but claimed by the Sahrawi independence movement—supported by Algeria—has been a contentious issue for decades. The Moroccan government has put forth a plan that grants autonomy to the region under its sovereignty, while the Sahrawi activists demand a referendum for self-determination. The differing visions of sovereignty and autonomy create a complex diplomatic landscape that has hindered past negotiations.

The implications of this U.S.-led initiative could be significant, potentially revitalizing talks that have stalled for years. With the U.S. showing increased commitment, the hope is that a more equitably negotiated settlement might emerge, bridging the gaps between the conflicting parties. The outcomes of such meetings not only impact regional stability in North Africa but also align with broader U.S. foreign policy interests in promoting democracy and self-determination across the continent.