U.S. republican congressman Lance Gooden has joined the list of lawmakers supporting the labelling of Algeria-backed Polisario group a terrorist organization, seeking to destabilize Morocco, strategic ally and long-standing partner of the United States.
A bipartisan legislation was introduced in June 2025 in the U.S. Congress to designate Polisario a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The legislation was sponsored by Representative Joe Wilson, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Democrat Jimmy Panetta.
The “Polisario Front Terrorist Designation Act” has gained so far the support of congressmen Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) and Randy Fine (R-FL) and more House Representatives are expected to join the momentum.
The H.R.4119 will restrict the Polisario movements abroad, freeze its funds in international banks, confiscate its assets, and ban any activities or gatherings related to the separatist group.
Any entity or country such as Algeria or South Africa associated with funding, supporting, or cooperating with the Polisario will face criminal charges and economic sanctions.