Morocco claims sovereignty over territory, but other countries back separatist movement.

Israel has recognised Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory of Western Sahara, the Moroccan government has said.

It added on Monday that Israel is mulling opening a consulate in Dakhla.

A statement from Morocco’s royal palace said Israel’s position was expressed in a letter to King Mohammed VI from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Morocco has had control of the territory, but little international recognition, since 1975, after Spanish colonial rule ended.

But a separatist movement, backed by Algeria, has long pushed for an independent state.