Recent statements by Israeli officials indicate that direct flights between Israel and Morocco will not resume as planned due to security concerns arising from ongoing demonstrations and classified travel warnings. Despite optimism from some members of the Jewish community, a senior source stated that safety risks remain paramount. The situation is compounded by Regev’s controversial visit to Morocco amidst protests, leading to airline policy changes regarding direct connections.
A senior Israeli security official has dismissed claims regarding the imminent resumption of direct flights between Israel and Morocco, following Transport Minister Miri Regev’s visit to the North African nation. While the Israeli Ministry of Transportation suggested flights might resume in April after Ramadan, a security source indicated that the current situation renders this timeline unrealistic, citing ongoing demonstrations in Morocco that pose risks to Israelis.
Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) currently categorizes Morocco as a medium-threat country, noting the potential for terrorist elements to target Israelis due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Despite Morocco’s solid safety record, the NSC advises against non-essential travel. In contrast, Israel has faced numerous security challenges, while Morocco has not experienced a terrorism incident since the 2011 Marrakesh bombing.
Andre Levy, a Moroccan-Israeli cultural anthropologist, provided an optimistic viewpoint, stating, “I don’t think that the Jews here have something to fear.” He emphasized that local Jews have supportive relationships with their Muslim neighbors, fostering a sense of community and safety. However, the security official maintained that flights would remain suspended while Morocco is under a Level 3 travel warning.
Regev’s controversial trip to Morocco for a road safety conference stirred protests, with delegations from various countries, including Palestine and Ireland, walking out during her speech. The visit’s expense, exceeding half a million shekels, attracted criticism, although Regev’s office noted that Morocco covered these costs. Prior to October 2023, several airlines, including Royal Air Maroc and El Al, offered direct flights between Israel and Morocco.
In light of recent events, El Al has announced it will not resume direct flights for the summer 2024 season due to shifts in customer demand. The ongoing political and security situation has led to increased reliance on connecting flights for those wishing to travel from Israel to Morocco.
The situation regarding the resumption of flights between Israel and Morocco remains uncertain, primarily due to escalating security concerns. Despite official announcements suggesting a timeline for resuming flights, a high-ranking security source has underscored the risks associated with ongoing demonstrations. With travel advisories still in effect, the prospects for direct flights remain bleak as political tensions and safety considerations overshadow tourism interests. As the Israeli administration grapples with its security policies, travelers are left to navigate connecting flights, while local communities express various perceptions about safety and risks involved. Ultimately, the intertwined issues of international relations and on-the-ground security continuously shape the landscape for flight operations between the two nations.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
