POLISARIO waged a war that forced Spain and Mauritania out of Western Sahara. From 1978, POLISARIO faced Morocco in a war that forced Morocco to accept autonomy for Western Sahara. Several factors favoured POLISARIO against her enemies_

It received financial, military and civil aid from Algeria and Libya. They too provided bases to POLISARIO fighters.

POLISARIO was massively supported by almost all the Saharans in all the four regions of Western Sahara. Many recruited as fighters, others worked as spies and the rest supported the struggle.

POLISARIO largely benefited from the warlike spirit and attitude of the Reguibat people. They formed the backbone of the POLISARIO force.

It received massive support from the socialist bloc. China, Cuba, Libya and other countries of Eastern Europe supported POLISARIO against Morocco.

POLISARIO was recognised and supported by the OAU. When SADR was founded in 1976, it was recognised and supported by many member nations of the OAU.

Mauritania faced economic hardships arising out of the fall in demand and price of iron ore In the world market. This weakened Mauritania and forced her out of the war in 1978.

POLISARIO adopted a protracted guerrilla warfare, which inflicted heavy casualties and death on the occupying forces. POLISARIO resorted to hit and run methods of fighting. It targeted Moroccan military and economic establishments. Mining centres, railway networks, administrative buildings, banks, etc, were targeted. This kind of war weakened Morocco and forced her to the negotiating table.

Drought, famine and hunger forced Mauritania to drop out of the war in 1978. Hie famine weakened Mauritania and aggravated the economic crisis and forced her out of the war.

POLISARIO was greatly underestimated by both Morocco and Mauritania. This meant that both countries were not fully prepared for a prolonged war. This worked to the advantage of POLISARIO.

POLISARIO divided its enemies and fought one at a go. POLISARIO initially concentrated on and defeated Mauritania in the south. Later POLISARIO took on Morocco. This strategy worked.

The UNO supported POLISARIO and Western Sahara's bid for self-determination. The UNO condemned Morocco's occupation of the territory. In 1980, the UNO General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to end Morocco's occupation.

The determination and resolve of POLISARIO.