The Washington Post reveals Iran’s involvement in training Polisario militants

On April 13, 2025, the renowned American newspaper The Washington Post published a disturbing investigation highlighting Iran’s involvement in the military training of Polisario Front fighters. The report, primarily focused on the Syrian regime’s efforts to dismantle smuggling networks linked to Iran, also underscores Iran’s growing activity in North Africa, particularly in the Sahara region.

According to regional and European sources quoted by the newspaper, Tehran is believed to have provided military training to armed Polisario members as part of a broader strategic network aimed at expanding its geopolitical influence beyond the Middle East. These training sessions, partly conducted on Syrian territory, reportedly involved hundreds of militants now detained by the security forces of the new Syrian regime.

This development has sparked deep concern within Western diplomatic circles, particularly in Washington, where support for Morocco’s territorial integrity has recently intensified. The United States, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reiterated its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan, describing it as “serious, credible, and realistic,” and the only viable path toward a just and lasting resolution of the conflict.

The revelation sheds new light on the international connections of the Polisario Front and confirms Morocco’s repeated warnings about the risks of collusion between this separatist movement and foreign powers hostile to regional stability. Iran’s alleged involvement adds a sensitive geopolitical layer to an already complex issue.

Finally, this case arises as Morocco’s diplomatic efforts gain momentum through consistent engagement in international forums. The exposure of such foreign interference could further strengthen international backing for the Kingdom’s sovereignty over its Sahara and increase scrutiny of Iran’s activities in the region.