Morocco advances diplomatic and military ties with Israel

Morocco is deepening its diplomatic and military ties with Israel despite significant domestic opposition. The Moroccan government has announced plans to upgrade relations to full embassies with ambassadors, including the relocation of the Israeli office to Mehdi Ben Barka Avenue.

In a notable development for the defense sector, Israeli firms are participating in the Marrakech Airshow. Organized by the Israeli Ministry of Defense's International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), the delegation includes companies such as Elbit Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. These firms are showcasing technologies including AI-based robotic systems, autonomous drones, satellite communications, and precision strike systems.

This normalization occurs against a backdrop of intense public protest. According to the Arab Opinion Index, 89% of Moroccans oppose recognition of Israel. While the King maintains executive authority over foreign policy and national security, groups like the Moroccan Front for Supporting Palestine and Against Normalisation have organized demonstrations across dozens of cities to voice their dissent.