Trump's Highway Naming Claims Stir Controversy
On July 26, 2026, former U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines when he shared a video on his social media platform, Truth Social, asserting that Morocco would honor him by naming a major highway after him. This announcement quickly garnered attention across various social media platforms, prompting inquiries from the public regarding the legitimacy of Trump's claim that a highway would be designated as 'The President Donald J. Trump Highway.'
Numerous reputable news outlets, including Forbes, Bloomberg, El País, and Hespress English, reported on Trump's assertion, each referencing the former president's own statement as the source of this information. However, as of the latest updates, the Moroccan government has remained silent on confirming this announcement. This situation raises questions about the accuracy of Trump's claims, especially considering his history of making grand proclamations that often lack follow-through.
Understanding the Context of the Tiznit-Dakhla Highway
The highway in question, known as the Tiznit-Dakhla Expressway, does indeed exist. Spanning over 1,000 kilometers (approximately 621 miles), it connects significant regions in southwestern Morocco, specifically linking Tiznit with Laayoune and Dakhla, two major cities within the disputed territory of Western Sahara. This area, rich in natural resources, has been a point of contention since the mid-1970s when Spain relinquished control, leaving Morocco to claim the territory amidst ongoing disputes with the indigenous Sahrawi people.
The highway project, which was completed in 2025, is part of Morocco's broader efforts to enhance infrastructure in Western Sahara, a region that has seen little development over the years. Morocco's strategic initiatives aim to integrate this sparsely populated area into the national fold and promote economic growth. Despite these developments, the controversial nature of naming a roadway after a former U.S. president, particularly one involved in international diplomacy regarding the region, adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate geopolitical landscape.
While the highway's existence is a fact, the lack of official acknowledgment from Morocco about Trump's naming proposal leaves the claim unverified. Snopes has reached out to both the White House and Moroccan officials for comments but has not received any responses at the time of publication. As the situation continues to evolve, the implications of such a naming ceremony, if it were to come to fruition, could have far-reaching consequences for U.S.-Morocco relations and the ongoing discourse surrounding Western Sahara.
As reported by snopes.com.
