Latest news with #JimmyPanetta
Ya Biladi
6 days ago
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
US : Algeria courts co-author of bill designating Polisario as terrorist group
A newly proposed bill in the United States House of Representatives, seeking to designate the Polisario Front as a terrorist organization, is stirring unease in Algeria. This apprehension is underscored by a recent meeting between Algeria's ambassador to Washington, Sabri Boukadoum, and Democratic Representative Jimmy Panetta, who co-authored the bill alongside Republican Jimmy Wilson. «Met with the Algerian Ambassador to discuss the U.S.-Algeria relationship, regional security, and trans-national terrorist organizations in their region of the African continent. Appreciate the dialogue and look forward to continued conversations that promote our mutual understanding and security», stated Panetta on the X platform. This diplomatic engagement from Algeria comes on the heels of a letter sent by «The Global Monitoring Center», an American organization aligned with the Polisario, to Senate Democratic Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer. The NGO voiced its «concern over the inaccurate information and allegations spread by the Moroccan lobby in the United States, as well as attempts to associate the Polisario Front with terrorism and extremist groups».
Ya Biladi
28-06-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
What a U.S. terrorist designation could mean for the Polisario Front
DR The bipartisan bill introduced by Representatives Joe Wilson (Republican) and Jimmy Panetta (Democrat) seeks to designate the Polisario Front as a « foreign terrorist organization » (FTO). However, even if the bill passes, the designation would not be automatic: under U.S. law, the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who acts on advice from the Treasury Department and the Department of Justice (8 U.S.C. § 1189). To persuade Congress—and ultimately Secretary of State Marco Rubio—Joe Wilson emphasizes the Polisario's ties to Hezbollah and Iran. He could also highlight threats of terrorist attacks against foreign interests in Western Sahara by leaders of the separatist movement. If the «Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act» succeeds and the State Department officially labels the Polisario as an FTO, here are four key consequences to expect: Implications of the FTO designation in the United States Asset freeze: The Treasury could block any funds controlled by the Polisario within U.S. jurisdiction. This freeze would be targeted; a global blockade would require an additional designation as a «Specially Designated Global Terrorist» (SDGT) by OFAC. In practice, many non-U.S. banks would likely halt processing dollar payments to avoid risks. Prosecution for «material support»: Anyone in the U.S. providing material assistance could face up to 20 years in prison (18 U.S.C. § 2339B). However, humanitarian licenses could still be granted, as has been done for groups like the Houthis, ensuring vital aid reaches civilians. Visas and border controls: Members and supporters would be legally inadmissible under INA § 212. Diplomatic exemptions might apply for UN personnel, but access to the U.S. would become the exception rather than the rule. Polisario's credibility and finances under pressure Loss of «liberation movement» aura: The FTO label would legally equate the Polisario with groups like Hezbollah or the PKK, seriously undermining its third-worldist narrative. Fundraising challenges: American payment platforms would sever ties, and European banks would adopt a strict cautionary stance. Non-dollar channels such as cryptocurrencies or Asian banks might persist unless secondary sanctions are imposed. NGOs under scrutiny: Humanitarian organizations would need OFAC licenses to operate in the Tindouf camps. Any advocacy or training involving the Polisario would become legally risky. Algeria in a delicate spot No automatic «State Sponsor of Terrorism» label: That designation requires clear, repeated support for attacks targeting U.S. interests. «Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act» law leverage: If Algeria pursues significant new Russian arms deals, CAATSA sanctions could be triggered, but this would be a highly political and conditional decision. Narrative costs: Supporting a group officially labeled as terrorist would damage Algeria's position, especially since some Sahel countries accuse it of backing terrorist groups in the region. Possible mitigation: Algeria might push for the disarmament of Polisario militias to ease international pressure. Multilateral repercussions: shifting from «decolonization» to «security» At the UN Security Council: The U.S. could push to add counter-terrorism to MINURSO's mandate during its next renewal. This would require a new resolution and must avoid a Russian or Chinese veto. Within the African Union: Some member states concerned about their image might distance themselves from the SADR, potentially leading to a formal suspension if 36 countries support amending the AU's founding charter. Bilateral relations: Hesitant countries would have a stronger rationale to openly back Morocco's autonomy plan. In short, if Washington finally brands the Polisario Front as an FTO, it would shine a spotlight on the alliances behind the Polisario—making them more visible, and more politically costly for countries like Algeria and South Africa to support.
Ya Biladi
28-06-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
What a U.S. terrorist designation could mean for the Polisario Front
The bipartisan bill introduced by Representatives Joe Wilson (Republican) and Jimmy Panetta (Democrat) seeks to designate the Polisario Front as a « foreign terrorist organization » (FTO). However, even if the bill passes, the designation would not be automatic: under U.S. law, the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who acts on advice from the Treasury Department and the Department of Justice (8 U.S.C. § 1189). To persuade Congress—and ultimately Secretary of State Marco Rubio—Joe Wilson emphasizes the Polisario's ties to Hezbollah and Iran. He could also highlight threats of terrorist attacks against foreign interests in Western Sahara by leaders of the separatist movement. If the «Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act» succeeds and the State Department officially labels the Polisario as an FTO, here are four key consequences to expect: Implications of the FTO designation in the United States Asset freeze: The Treasury could block any funds controlled by the Polisario within U.S. jurisdiction. This freeze would be targeted; a global blockade would require an additional designation as a «Specially Designated Global Terrorist» (SDGT) by OFAC. In practice, many non-U.S. banks would likely halt processing dollar payments to avoid risks. Prosecution for «material support»: Anyone in the U.S. providing material assistance could face up to 20 years in prison (18 U.S.C. § 2339B). However, humanitarian licenses could still be granted, as has been done for groups like the Houthis, ensuring vital aid reaches civilians. Visas and border controls: Members and supporters would be legally inadmissible under INA § 212. Diplomatic exemptions might apply for UN personnel, but access to the U.S. would become the exception rather than the rule. Polisario's credibility and finances under pressure Loss of «liberation movement» aura: The FTO label would legally equate the Polisario with groups like Hezbollah or the PKK, seriously undermining its third-worldist narrative. Fundraising challenges: American payment platforms would sever ties, and European banks would adopt a strict cautionary stance. Non-dollar channels such as cryptocurrencies or Asian banks might persist unless secondary sanctions are imposed. NGOs under scrutiny: Humanitarian organizations would need OFAC licenses to operate in the Tindouf camps. Any advocacy or training involving the Polisario would become legally risky. Algeria in a delicate spot No automatic «State Sponsor of Terrorism» label: That designation requires clear, repeated support for attacks targeting U.S. interests. «Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act» law leverage: If Algeria pursues significant new Russian arms deals, CAATSA sanctions could be triggered, but this would be a highly political and conditional decision. Narrative costs: Supporting a group officially labeled as terrorist would damage Algeria's position, especially since some Sahel countries accuse it of backing terrorist groups in the region. Possible mitigation: Algeria might push for the disarmament of Polisario militias to ease international pressure. Multilateral repercussions: shifting from «decolonization» to «security» At the UN Security Council: The U.S. could push to add counter-terrorism to MINURSO's mandate during its next renewal. This would require a new resolution and must avoid a Russian or Chinese veto. Within the African Union: Some member states concerned about their image might distance themselves from the SADR, potentially leading to a formal suspension if 36 countries support amending the AU's founding charter. Bilateral relations: Hesitant countries would have a stronger rationale to openly back Morocco's autonomy plan. In short, if Washington finally brands the Polisario Front as an FTO, it would shine a spotlight on the alliances behind the Polisario—making them more visible, and more politically costly for countries like Algeria and South Africa to support.
Morocco World
27-06-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
US Congressman Joe Wilson Officially Introduces Bill to Designate Polisario as Terrorist Group
Marrakech – Republican Congressman Joe Wilson, alongside Democratic Representative Jimmy Panetta, has submitted a bipartisan bill to the US Congress seeking to classify the Polisario Front as a foreign terrorist group. The congressman formally submitted the legislation titled 'Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act' to the House of Representatives on June 24. It now sits before both the Foreign Affairs and Justice Committees for thorough examination. Wilson revealed the initiative through his X account, labeling the Polisario as 'a Marxist militia backed by Iran, Hezbollah and Russia providing Iran a strategic outpost in Africa and destabilizing the Kingdom of Morocco, a US ally for 248 years.' The congressman, who fulfilled a promise he had repeated many times, expressed gratification at introducing this cross-party legislation with Rep. Jimmy Panetta to brand the Polisario as a foreign terrorist organization. The comprehensive bill directly implicates the separatist movement in extensive arms and drug trafficking networks throughout the Sahel region, deliberate violations of established ceasefire agreements with Morocco, and calculated attacks targeting Moroccan civilians in Saharan border territories. The legislation meticulously documents connections between the Polisario and various extremist organizations operating in the region, bolstered by support from Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia – relationships that pose direct threats to regional and international stability. The Polisario is a Marxist militia backed by Iran, Hezbollah and Russia providing Iran a strategic outpost in Africa and destabilizing the Kingdom of Morocco, a U.S. ally for 248 years. Grateful to introduce bipartisan legislation with @RepJimmyPanetta to designate the Polisario… — Joe Wilson (@RepJoeWilson) June 26, 2025 Should this bill receive approval, it would trigger a fundamental shift in American foreign policy regarding North Africa, as Washington considers Morocco's position vital for international security frameworks. The legislation would expose the Polisario Front to stringent sanctions, severe economic restrictions, and complete diplomatic isolation, effectively categorizing it alongside notorious terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, ISIS, and FARC. US under Trump's leadership propels push for final resolution of the Sahara dispute This decisive congressional action follows only two months after Washington's firm reaffirmation of support for Morocco's sovereignty over the Western Sahara. During an April 8 meeting in Washington, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita that the United States unequivocally recognizes Morocco's sovereignty over its southern provinces and backs the autonomy proposal 'as the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the dispute.' The statement dealt a heavy blow to the Cold War relic narrative and its chief sponsor, Algeria, which had mocked Trump's initial recognition as 'just a tweet,' only to watch it solidify even further under the second Trump administration, leaving no doubt about Washington's unwavering commitment. The State Department subsequently reinforced this position in an official diplomatic communiqué, stating: 'The United States would contribute to any progress toward achieving this goal.' Observers described the declaration as a pivotal moment that closed the door on any illusions of a reversal. With Trump back in power, Washington's endorsement has shifted from symbolic recognition to an institutional pillar of US foreign policy, and is now pushing decisively to resolve the decades-long fabricated Western Sahara dispute. A Spanish think tank report published by Instituto Coordenadas de Gobernanza y Economía Aplicada on June 11 noted that this firm American stance, coupled with pressure on Algeria to dismantle the Tindouf camps, marks the beginning of the end for the separatist narrative. This momentum could draw a definitive close to one of Africa's most unnecessarily prolonged and politically manufactured territorial falsehoods, long sustained by external agendas rather than historical legitimacy. A resolute ally who honored his word Wilson has consistently criticized external support for the Polisario Front. During a public session of Congress in January, he directly accused several nations of enabling the separatist group: 'War criminal Putin, Iran, and Cuba are actively destabilizing West Africa by supporting the Polisario Front, a threat to the Kingdom of Morocco,' Wilson declared, while powerfully reaffirming Morocco's role as a steadfast and indispensable American ally. In the same address, he reminded colleagues that 'President Donald Trump stood with Morocco, recognizing Western Sahara as Moroccan,' and noted his role as chair of the US-Morocco Caucus. He also denounced, at the time, Algeria's provocative hosting of 'terrorist-designated Kurdish separatists to meet with Polisario militia in Tindouf,' specifically referencing the 'notorious PKK and YPG' visit to the camps. Wilson had repeatedly telegraphed his intentions regarding this legislation and consistently vowed to hold those enabling the separatists accountable. Following his April 9 meeting with Bourita, Wilson wrote , 'Grateful to meet with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita to discuss our long-standing partnership and commitment to peace in the region, including the stability of Western Sahara from Polisario terrorists. The U.S. stands with Morocco for peace.' Just two days later, he confirmed on X: 'I will introduce legislation to designate the Polisario as terrorists. Iran & Putin are gaining a foothold in Africa via Polisario. Connect the dots: axis of aggression.' The congressman has maintained unwavering determination, vowing on May 22: 'The legislation is coming soon,' while adding the pointed assurance that 'Trump will fix it.' Proof that eradicates all ambiguity surrounding the Polisario's true nature Multiple prestigious American think tanks have assembled overwhelming evidence supporting the terrorist designation. The Hudson Institute's comprehensive analysis has shattered the Polisario's self-portrayal as a liberation movement, instead revealing it as 'a destabilizing militia' steeped in arms smuggling and youth indoctrination, while 'aligning itself with the strategic agendas of Iran, Russia, and China.' The report, authored by Zineb Riboua, meticulously documents how the Polisario's activities 'go far beyond the standard for a terror designation.' According to the Hudson Institute's analysis, the Polisario Front conclusively meets all three statutory criteria for designation as a Foreign Terrorist Organization under US law. Most alarmingly, the institute confirms the separatist group 'receives drones from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) through transfers facilitated by the Algerian regime' and 'smuggles arms to jihadist insurgencies that threaten American forces across the Sahel.' The report specifically highlights the case of Adnan Abu Walid al-Sahrawi, who reportedly held a role in the Polisario before becoming the emir of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS). Under his leadership, ISGS carried out numerous attacks across the Sahel, including a 2017 ambush in Niger that killed four US soldiers. This trajectory 'underscores how militant ecosystems in the region overlap and evolve' and demonstrates that 'the Polisario's political infrastructure in Tindouf has long facilitated radicalization, trafficking, and terrorist mobilization.' In a landmark May 21 analysis for The Daily Signal titled 'Why the US Must Confront Terror Proxy Polisario Front,' Robert Greenway, director of the Allison Center for National Security, and Amine Ghoulidi, visiting fellow at the Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy, presented devastating evidence of the group's terrorist activities. 'Today, Polisario fighters field Iranian-type drones, share desert corridors with Russian proxies' supply convoys, and tax smuggling routes that feed Sahel jihadists. All this takes place within missile range of the Strait of Gibraltar, one of the world's most critical maritime choke points,' they write. The experts remind Washington of a troubling precedent: 'In 1988, Polisario missiles brought down two U.S. Agency for International Development aircraft, killing five Americans—and the U.S. failed to respond with sanctions.' The analysts warn that since the 2020 unilateral withdrawal from the UN-brokered ceasefire, Polisario has declared the Western Sahara a 'zone of war,' resumed rocket attacks along Morocco's defensive berm, and explicitly warned that 'foreign consulates, airlines, and companies were 'legitimate targets.'' Their analysis identifies the three pillars supporting Polisario's operations: 'Iranian military assistance, a growing Russian influence network, and a mature trans-Sahel illicit economy that overlaps with jihadist financing streams.' The authors note that Algeria's sanctuary allows Polisario to 'stockpile ordnance, experiment with new systems, and cultivate external sponsors at minimal risk,' while maintaining a force of roughly 8,000 fighters with potential to mobilize up to 40,000 – 'a manpower pool that Polisario commanders can draw on and which jihadist recruiters have already probed.' The National Interest published a comprehensive analysis on June 9, stressing that more countries are adopting Morocco's security approach to safeguard its southern provinces and prevent the region from becoming home to a 'jihadist government.' The publication stated, 'The Polisario has, in recent years, aligned itself with some of the most radical actors in the region,' recalling how Tindouf has become a breeding ground for 'jihadist recruitment and a nexus for extremist networks operating across the Sahel.' The Washington Post has published explosive revelations documenting hundreds of Polisario mercenaries dispatched by Iran to fight alongside the Syrian regime. In its April 12 edition, the newspaper stated: 'Iran has trained fighters from the Polisario Front, a rebel group based in Algeria that is fighting for Western Sahara's independence from Morocco. Hundreds of these fighters are currently detained by the new Syrian security forces.' The report cited direct testimony from these security forces and Western diplomats stationed in the region, providing incontrovertible confirmation of long-standing Moroccan assertions regarding the dangerous nexus between Iran, Hezbollah, and the Polisario, facilitated through Algerian channels. The proposed legislation would impose crippling consequences on the Polisario terror group, including complete asset freezes, absolute prohibition of financial or political interactions with its supporters, and implementation of targeted sanctions. This designation would also significantly complicate diplomatic relations with Algeria, the primary state sponsor and sanctuary provider for the violent separatist movement. Mounting evidence and a surging global consensus are isolating the Polisario. With the UK joining the US, France, and Spain in recognizing Moroccan sovereignty, over 120 nations now back the Autonomy Plan as the only credible path to end the conflict. Read also: Is this the end of the Polisario?
Fox News
19-06-2025
- Politics
- Fox News
Arab allies recognize Iran's danger, lawmakers say, as region views regime change cautiously
EXCLUSIVE: Top congressional Iran hawks were about to depart for the U.S. from the Middle East on Wednesday, when two members of the delegation spoke to Fox News Digital about what they were seeing on the ground. Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, and Rep. Jimmy Panetta, D-Calif., said they visited Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and were in the United Arab Emirates as of Tuesday, meeting with leaders and discussing the armed conflict between Israel and Iran. "Over the course of the last week, we have seen just a dramatic escalation, particularly by Iran threatening the region," he said, adding that he is also spearheading the Iranian Maximum Pressure Campaign Act, which comprises 47 pieces that give President Donald Trump leverage over Iranian "Supreme Leader" Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei. Nunn, a retired colonel in the U.S. Air Force – who conducted intel-reconnaissance missions off Russia and China – said Gen. Erik "Gorilla" Kurilla has his "full support" after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated Tuesday he would defer to the CENTCOM commander on Iranian strategy. "[Kurilla] has been very clear here that Iran needs to take the offramp from its nuclear enrichment program. In fact, he was one of the ones that highlighted here the real threat coming from a nuclear Iran, both to its neighbor Israel, and other nations across the Middle East. The United States has a very important role to play here in deterrence," he said. Arab allies like the UAE recognize that Iran presents the greatest "existential threat" to peace in the Middle East, Nunn said, adding that as a veteran of the War on Terror, he doesn't want to see U.S. service members return to combat in the region. Forty thousand troops, however, are stationed in non-combat roles in the region, and are in range of Iranian weapons if Tehran escalates. Nunn warned that the porous southern border has also opened up the likelihood that Iranian proxies are already inside the U.S., and cited reports Tehran was connected in some way to the assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania. He and Panetta, son of former CIA Director Leon Panetta, said the reason they came together in a bipartisan showing to Mideast leaders was that while they may not disagree politically on every issue, Congress is united with Mideast allies. "There's a real opportunity here for our Arab partners and Israel to stand together in deterring Iran. The U.S. should not be the policeman for the world. There are certain capabilities that only the United States can provide in this scenario. That includes deep penetration strikes to eliminate the nuclear reactor and the enrichment program that Iran's produced. But ultimately, this is also up to the Iranian people to decide what they want for their future." Panetta said he hopes the trip helped lay an even stronger basis for other nations to align with the Abraham Accords forged by Trump in his first term. "The conflict between Israel and Iran broke out on Thursday, before the Friday we were to get here. And so that sort of changed a few things and unfortunately prevented us from going into Israel. However, we were able to have very substantive meetings with some of the leadership in Saudi Arabia, in Bahrain, and here in the United Arab Emirates before we have to fly out tonight," Panetta said. "And what we heard consistently is -- none of them want a nuclear-armed Iran." Like Nunn, Panetta also does not want boots on the ground, saying that when or if Tehran's government falls or surrenders, as Trump wants, the change must come "from within." Members of both parties aren't looking to trigger regime change through force, he said, but they do want to see Tehran's nuclear ambitions defeated. And, when it comes to concerns about stability – after seeing Iraq and Libya falter after strongmen were ousted – it will be up to the Iranian people at that point how to proceed, the lawmakers said. "The purpose of Israel's bombing, at least from what we've heard, was to destroy their nuclear capabilities. It was not for regime change," Panetta said. "However, if the people see this as an opportunity, then that's something that basically, I think now more than ever, would be the right time for the people of Iran to rise up." Given the rare bipartisan agreement on the Iran issue in an otherwise fractured political environment, the Democrat added that he will always work with anyone to support both his constituents, and whoever, including Trump, wants to have substantive discussions to solve pressing problems like Iran's nuclear capabilities, "forever wars," and that Israel retains the right to defend itself. "[Those] are bipartisan issues that I think we can work together on," Panetta said.
