Morocco’s Enduring Ties with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

Morocco has strengthened its ties with Israel during the Gaza conflict, diverging from other Arab nations who have distanced themselves. This is evidenced by military contracts and strategic partnerships, despite significant public opposition to normalization. The Moroccan government is balancing international relations with domestic sentiment while pursuing its security interests in Western Sahara.

The ongoing Gaza conflict has not diminished Morocco’s relationship with Israel; rather, it has strengthened it. According to Youssef Amrani, Morocco’s ambassador to the United States, while some Arab nations may have cooled their connections with Israel, Morocco has opted to deepen its ties, evident in its recent military purchases from Israeli manufacturers. The kingdom announced in early February the acquisition of 36 Atmos 2000 artillery systems from Elbit Systems, moving away from its previous reliance on French arms.

Morocco’s military strategy is increasingly inclined towards Israeli technology, abandoning plans to replace its spy satellites with European alternatives in favor of acquiring advanced Ofek-13 satellites from Israel Aerospace Industries for $1 billion. This marks Morocco’s largest military contract with Israel yet. The arms trade between the two nations continues to flourish, with Morocco purchasing various military equipment, positioning Israel as the kingdom’s third-largest supplier of arms as of 2023.

Historical ties between Morocco and Israel date back to the 1980s, with formal diplomatic relations reestablished in December 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords. This normalization came with U.S. recognition of Morocco’s claims over Western Sahara. Despite mounting pro-Palestinian sentiments in the country, including significant protests, Morocco’s leadership has pursued agreements with Israel, resulting in high-profile visits from Israeli officials and military leaders.

Recent incidents, such as the port call of an Israeli naval vessel in Tangier, highlight Morocco’s willingness to engage with Israel amidst regional tensions. Although there is significant public opposition to normalization, including protests calling for a repeal of agreements with Israel, the Moroccan government has maintained a relatively tolerant stance towards dissent while prioritizing stability and international relations.

Rabat’s bolstered relationship with Israel is also seen as a strategic move against Algeria and the Polisario Front, with military cooperation playing a pivotal role. The kingdom seeks U.S. support to solidify its claims over Western Sahara, advocating for an autonomy plan that garners international backing. With Morocco’s ambitions for a more defined status over the region, close ties with Israel offer diplomatic advantages, especially in Washington.

As Morocco navigates these complex relationships, it faces the challenge of balancing international diplomacy with domestic opinion. The Moroccan leadership must consider the implications of its ties with Israel while addressing protests and public dissatisfaction. Maintaining its current course may involve Morocco playing a strategic role in future peacekeeping or humanitarian efforts in the region, as suggested by recent discussions with U.S. officials.

In summary, Morocco’s relationship with Israel remains robust despite the ongoing Gaza conflict, demonstrating a strategic choice to deepen military and diplomatic ties. This approach has been shaped by Morocco’s interests in regional security and its ambitions regarding Western Sahara. As public sentiment fluctuates, the Moroccan government faces pressures to navigate its international partnerships while addressing the voices of dissent at home. Moving forward, Morocco may find itself in a pivotal position, potentially playing a significant role in future peace initiatives involving Israel and Palestinian territories.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net