In June 2025, US Congressmen Joe Wilson (R-SC) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) introduced the Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act (H.R. 4119), directing the State Department to assess whether the separatist movement meets criteria for Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) status. The Senate hearing also revived longstanding congressional concerns about Algeria’s continued acquisition of Russian weapons. In past correspondence highlighted during the session, lawmakers warned that Algerian purchases of advanced Russian systems could trigger sanctions under US law. Legislators cited the CAATSA sanctions framework, noting that Algeria has been among the world’s major buyers of Russian military equipment.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 05, 2026 14:38 UTC