Moroccan Navy Takes Action in Lagouira Waters
In a decisive operation on Sunday, the Moroccan Royal Navy successfully expelled several fishing vessels from Senegal and Mauritania that had entered the waters off Lagouira, a strategic area in Morocco. This intervention was carried out without any incidents, as confirmed by a source close to the situation who spoke to Yabiladi. The fishing crews complied and left the Moroccan maritime territory without resistance, highlighting the effective enforcement of Morocco's sovereignty over its waters.
This operation comes in the context of ongoing fishing agreements between Senegal and Mauritania, which were originally signed in 2001 and renewed on November 13, 2025. These agreements allow fishermen from both countries to operate within their respective territorial waters. Nevertheless, there have been several instances previously where the Moroccan Navy had to intervene, with similar actions taken against Mauritanian fishing boats in April of the same year.
Context and Implications for Regional Relations
The recent expulsion of foreign fishing vessels from Lagouira is set against a backdrop of significant diplomatic discussions regarding Western Sahara. This region has been a point of contention, with the United Nations Security Council preparing for two meetings to address its status. The Mauritanian government has recently presented its position concerning territorial claims, following a report from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasizing the need for a commission to define the definitive and permanent international borders of the contested territory.
The issue of Lagouira holds particular importance for Mauritania, given its proximity to Nouadhibou, the country's economic capital. Historical claims to the area trace back to agreements made in August 1979, when Mauritania acquired control over Lagouira as part of a political settlement involving the Polisario Front. However, these political concessions have diminished following the involvement of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) in El Guerguerate in November 2020, marking a shift in the dynamics of territorial control in the region.
The Moroccan government's firm stance on Lagouira is a clear signal of its commitment to maintaining sovereignty over its territorial waters and addressing any incursions effectively. As international discussions regarding the borders and territorial rights continue, the situation in Lagouira remains a focal point of interest for both Morocco and Mauritania.
As reported by yabiladi.com.
