Morocco has intensified its ties with Israel during the Gaza war, diverging from trends in other Arab nations. The country has made substantial military purchases from Israeli firms, fostering deepened defense collaboration. Public sentiment, however, shows significant opposition to this normalization, indicated by large protests across the nation.
Despite the ongoing Gaza war, Morocco has solidified its relationship with Israel, contrary to trends in other Arab nations. Moroccan Ambassador to the U.S., Youssef Amrani, noted a freeze in Arab-Israeli cooperation, but Morocco has deepened ties by purchasing 36 Atmos 2000 artillery systems from Israeli firm Elbit Systems, moving away from reliance on traditional suppliers like France.
Morocco’s shift to Israeli arms has been notable, including a $1 billion contract for Ofek-13 satellites from Israel Aerospace Industries to replace European models. This demonstrates a growing defense collaboration; Israel was the kingdom’s third-largest arms supplier in 2023, trailing only the U.S. and France.
Historically, Morocco and Israel have maintained discreet relations dating back to the 1980s, with formal diplomatic ties established through the Abraham Accords in December 2020. This arrangement followed U.S. recognition of Morocco’s claims over Western Sahara, reflecting a strategic partnership.
Israel’s governmental visits to Morocco have been numerous, emphasizing mutual interests in defense agreements. Although high-profile visits have been delayed due to the Gaza conflict, cooperation in military contracts remains strong, including maritime incidents like Israeli naval vessels refueling in Moroccan ports.
Public sentiment in Morocco, however, shows significant opposition to normalization with Israel. Large pro-Palestinian protests have occurred, revealing a disconnect between governmental actions and public opinion, where a majority oppose cooperation with Israel.
Despite public dissent, Morocco has allowed continued cooperation with Israel and has recently tolerated protests against normalization. Activists calling for boycotts or opposition faced minimal repercussions compared to what might occur in other contexts, revealing the government’s careful approach.
Morocco’s military engagement with Israel appears driven by the need for advanced capabilities against regional adversaries. The longstanding conflict with the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, necessitates strong defense relationships, particularly with U.S. support for Moroccan territorial claims.
Upcoming geopolitical dynamics hint at Morocco’s role in future discussions regarding stability in Gaza. As military cooperation escalates with Israel, the kingdom aims for greater international legitimacy over Western Sahara, leveraging its power against Palestinian displacement proposals in the broader regional context.
Morocco’s strategic alignment with Israel continues despite the unpopularity of Israel’s actions, focusing on military cooperation and economic ties. While public protests illustrate discontent with normalization, the Moroccan government has prioritized defense interests and geopolitical strategy over domestic sentiment. As relationships with Israel deepen, Morocco seeks to enhance its international positioning regarding both Western Sahara and the broader Palestinian situation.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
