Tragic Loss in the Polisario Conflict
The ongoing conflict between the Polisario Front and Morocco has witnessed a significant loss with the death of Lehbib Mohamed Abdelaziz, the son of former Sahrawi President Mohamed Abdelaziz. According to the Sahrawi Ministry of Defense, he died heroically in combat on June 7, while bravely facing Moroccan occupation forces at what is known as the ‘wall of shame.’ This announcement highlights the intensity of the ongoing struggle for self-determination in Western Sahara, a territory long contested by Morocco and the Sahrawi people.
Lehbib Mohamed Abdelaziz, aged 37, was not only a soldier but also an emblem of his father’s legacy. His father, the late Mohamed Abdelaziz, led the Sahrawi cause from 1975 until his death in 2016, establishing a robust resistance against Moroccan claims over Western Sahara. In the wake of his death, the Sahrawi Republic declared three days of national mourning, reflecting the profound impact of this loss on the Sahrawi people and their fight for independence.
A Life Dedicated to the Sahrawi Cause
Lehbib was born in the refugee camps of Tindouf, Algeria, often referred to as the “camps of dignity.” He received his basic education there, learning the Quran before pursuing higher studies in international relations in Algeria. In 2011, he joined the Sahrawi People's Liberation Army (ALPS), quickly rising through the ranks due to his dedication and strategic acumen. He completed special forces training and further developed his military skills, ultimately becoming commander of the first reserve brigade and a member of the National Secretariat of the Polisario Front.
The Sahrawi Ministry of Defense praised Lehbib for his humility, responsibility, and commitment to the people he served. They described him as a leader who sought neither glory nor recognition but rather worked tirelessly to support his comrades. His death not only represents a personal loss but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by the Sahrawi people in their pursuit of autonomy and recognition on the world stage.
As reported by tsa-algerie.com.
