Protests in Morocco against Israel’s actions in Gaza have been ongoing since October, with thousands of people expressing their discontent with their government’s approach to the situation. In Rabat, protesters have marched with Palestinian flags and signs demanding “Resistance till victory”, “Free Palestine”, and “Stop Moroccan government normalization with Israel”. The assassination of Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri on January 2 has only intensified the anger and the protests.
Despite calls for stronger action from Islamist and left-wing groups, the Moroccan government has continued to support a ceasefire and a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The government’s recognition of Israel came at the end of 2020 when it signed the Abraham Accords, hoping to gain recognition of its claims to the disputed territory of Western Sahara and strengthen trade and investment ties with Israel.
While Morocco’s recognition of Israel was motivated by political and economic interests, public sentiment towards Israel has always been chilly in Morocco. As the conflict in Gaza escalates, Morocco’s relations with Israel are strained, leading to the cancellation of direct flights and the evacuation of Israel’s liaison office in Rabat. Economic and military ties, however, have thrived, with deals for drones and surveillance satellites favoring Morocco.
Despite the criticism, the Moroccan government seems determined to maintain its course and uphold its relationship with Israel. The impact of the war in Gaza on the region’s alliances and the perception of the US remains to be seen. Ultimately, the direction of normalization with Israel lies with Tel Aviv and how long it continues on its present course.